Église catholique du Sacré-Cœur-de-Jésus à Lille

Built by French Architect Ernest Régnier in 1895, the Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur-de-Jésus in Lille is one of the most iconic churches in northern France. Founded in the late 19th century in the city’s historic Mons district, the two-towered neo-Gothic structure, boasting four spires, is the largest religious building in the area.

Its interior features a tall, barrel-vaulted ceiling, a colorful polychrome decor, and an ornate carved altarpiece. The church is known for its richly-detailed stained-glass windows and its five chapels devoted to the Virgin Mary and iconic figures from French history. The nearby outdoor carillon of bells can often be heard ringing. Visitors come to admire the many lavishly-ornamented chapels and crucifixes, as well as its stunning art-glass window and the organ chosen by 19th-century composer Charles-Marie Widor as his favorite place to play music. The church also serves as a popular venue for religious processions as well as special art and music events.