Montmartre: The Artistic Heart of Paris

• HelloBonjour
  [bohn-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh reh-vwar]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryehn]
• Thank youMerci
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• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah / day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. ay voo]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
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• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
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• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
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• I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
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• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
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• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
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• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
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• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
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• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
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• Half past (10)Dix et demi
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• MorningMatin
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• AfternoonAprès-midi
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• EveningSoir
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• YesterdayHier
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• TodayAujourd'hui
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• TomorrowDemain
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• 1Un
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• 2Deux
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• 3Trois
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• 5Cinq
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• 7Sept
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• 8Huit
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• 9Neuf
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• 10Dix
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• Where's a/the...?Où est...?
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• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shan (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

Montmartre's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation as early as the Gallic period. The hill was known as 'Mons Martis' during the Roman era, a name that later evolved into Montmartre. The site was significant for its strategic elevation and its position along trade routes, attracting early settlers and traders.

In the late 19th century, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur was constructed atop Montmartre, symbolizing a spiritual and national reconciliation following the Franco-Prussian War. Completed in 1914, its stunning Byzantine architecture and prominent location have made it a focal point for both worship and tourism, deeply influencing the cultural landscape of Paris.

The 19th century saw Montmartre emerge as an epicenter for artists, writers, and musicians. This period gave birth to the Montmartre School, which included renowned figures such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. The neighborhood's bohemian lifestyle and vibrant cabarets, like the Moulin Rouge, became legendary, attracting creative minds from around the world.

During the Paris Commune of 1871, Montmartre was a crucial battleground for revolutionary activities. Its residents played a significant role in the uprising against the French government, and many key events unfolded in the area. The aftermath of the Commune led to a profound impact on the local community and its identity, shaping the narrative of resistance and social change.

The 20th century brought a new wave of cultural significance to Montmartre, continuing its legacy as a hub for artists, musicians, and intellectuals. The neighborhood became synonymous with the avant-garde movement, housing numerous galleries, theaters, and cafés where ideas flourished. The continued influence of Montmartre is evident in contemporary Parisian culture, maintaining its status as a symbol of artistic freedom.

Montmartre is accessible from various neighborhoods in Paris. The closest metro station is Abbesses (Line 12), which brings you right into the heart of Montmartre. Alternatively, you can take Line 2 to Anvers station, which is near the base of the hill. From Gare du Nord, take Metro Line 4 to Strasbourg-Saint-Denis, then transfer to Line 8 towards Balard and get off at the station Grands Boulevards. Buses 30, 31, 54, and 68 also service the area. For those arriving from the airports, a taxi or RER B train to Gare du Nord followed by the metro is recommended.

Montmartre is best explored on foot due to its steep streets and charming alleys. The Montmartre Funicular is also a good option for those who wish to avoid the uphill walk. Public transport includes the metro and buses, with several lines running through the area. Bike rentals through the city's Vélib' system are available, offering a pleasant way to navigate the neighborhood. Be prepared for hilly terrain if you decide to walk.

Montmartre is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially around crowded tourist spots like Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre. Areas near the Pigalle metro station, especially at night, can be riskier due to nightlife activity. Always be cautious of your belongings and avoid poorly lit streets after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in France. The nearest police station is located at 17 Rue des Abbesses. For medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is Hôpital Bichat, which can be reached by taxi or public transport. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress in layers as the weather can change. Don’t wear overly casual or beach attire in restaurants or shops. Religion: Do respect the customs at religious sites; take off your hat and speak quietly. Don’t take photos inside the Sacré-Cœur unless permitted. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t block the doors when entering or exiting. Greetings: Do greet shopkeepers and locals with a friendly 'Bonjour'. Don’t forget to say 'Merci' after being served. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like crêpes and pastries. Don’t rush your meal; dining is a leisurely experience in France.

To experience Montmartre like a local, visit the lesser-known cafés and bistros away from the tourist trail, such as Le Consulat or La Maison Rose. Take time to explore the quiet streets and find the hidden vineyards and art studios. Attend a local event or art exhibition at the Espace Dalí or the Musée de l'Orangerie. For the best views of the city, visit the terrace at the Sacré-Cœur early in the morning or during sunset to avoid crowds.