The amazing bust of Dalida in Montmartre Paris
Bust of Dalida in Montmartre, with the famously golden chest.
Who Was Dalida?
Dalida was more than a singer—she was a cultural icon, a symbol of elegance, and one of France’s most beloved artists. Born in Egypt in 1933 to Italian parents, she rose to fame in the 1950s and enjoyed a dazzling career across four decades. With her powerful voice and emotional songs, she sold millions of records in multiple languages, from French to Arabic to Italian.
But beyond her fame, Dalida was also a deeply human figure, marked by both glory and tragedy. Her life story, filled with love, heartbreak, and resilience, touched the hearts of generations.
Dalida and Montmartre
Dalida lived in Montmartre for much of her life. She loved the neighborhood’s bohemian spirit and peaceful charm. After her tragic passing in 1987, the city of Paris paid tribute by installing a bronze bust in her honor at Place Dalida, just a short walk from her former home.
The bust is now a true pilgrimage site for fans and curious visitors alike. Surrounded by ivy-covered walls and quaint Parisian streets, it’s one of Montmartre’s most photographed and intriguing monuments.
Our guided walking tour of Montmartre includes a stop at the Dalida bust and reveals the stories behind this neighborhood’s most famous figures. Discover Dalida’s connection to the area and hear anecdotes you won’t find in any guidebook.
Want to take home a piece of Montmartre? Our watercolor workshop lets you paint the streets and spirit of this artistic neighborhood with your own hands. It's a calm, creative, and unforgettable experience.
The Curious Tradition of Touching Dalida’s Bust
If you visit the bust today, you’ll notice something odd: the chest of the statue is golden, much shinier than the rest of the bronze. That’s because, for years, visitors have been rubbing Dalida’s breasts for good luck—or sometimes just for the photo.
This curious ritual started as a quirky tourist habit, and over time, it became a kind of unofficial tradition. The bronze has worn away and turned golden due to the thousands of hands that have touched it. Some see it as a tribute to Dalida’s sensuality and iconic status, others just do it for fun or superstition.
Whether you touch it or not, the bust of Dalida remains one of Montmartre’s most beloved monuments—a mix of glamour, mystery, and a little cheeky humor, just like Dalida herself.
Next time you’re in Montmartre, don’t miss this unique corner of the neighborhood. Between art, music, and folklore, Dalida continues to watch over Paris from her quiet square on the hill.