The first thing that catches the attention of absolutely all visitors to Sacre-Coeur Basilica is the huge mosaic “The Triumph of Christ’s Sacred Heart,” located on the vault above the altar. It depicts Christ, opening his arms as if welcoming everyone entering the church. To his left is Mary, asking her son on behalf of all humanity. And at her feet is the figure of Pope Leo XIII, presenting the globe to Christ. Immediately behind them are representatives of the five continents, dressed in national costumes. After them come Catholic popes and cardinals, frozen in reverent poses.
And on the other side, to the right of Christ, is Archangel Michael, leading the heavenly host. Before him is the innocently slain Saint Joan d’Arc in armor and with a sword; beside her is the “allegory of France” in white robes, presenting a crown to Christ. Then follow members of the French royal family and government connected with the construction of Sacre-Coeur.
In the sky above the Mother of God are the holy apostles Peter, John, and Paul in the company of Catholic saints and martyrs Augustine, Dominic, Francis of Assisi, and others. Opposite them, on the right side of the heavenly vault, are French saints — Lazarus of Marseille, Mary Magdalene, Saint Genevieve, and others.
Illustrating the unity of the Holy Trinity, the entire composition of the mosaic is bound together by a red-and-gold ribbon connecting heaven, Jesus, the dove as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, and God the Father.
