Who doesn't know Dalida? Even the youngest have sung one of her legendary songs at least once. From " Laissez-moi danser " to " Mourir sur scène ", not forgetting " Paroles, paroles ", " Il venait d'avoir 18 ans " and " Salma ya Salama "... The Italian singer and actress, who became a French citizen in 1961, left behind an incredibly rich musical repertoire.
Dalida - whose real name was Iolanda Cristina Gigliotti - died on May 3, 1987 at the age of 54, leaving a lasting impression on several generations. The artist with the tragic destiny had one success after another, to the point of becoming a key figure in French chanson. Her strength? Her songs were as diverse as pop, raï, twist and, of course, disco.
Today, many people are still fascinated by Dalida's career. Her artistic life and personal tragedies have made her a veritable icon. An icon who attracts many fans and curious onlookers to the Montmartre district every day, eager to follow in Dalida's footsteps in Paris.
It was in fact in the 18th arrondissement of the capital that Dalida finally decided to settle. In the early 60's, she bought a private mansion at N°11 bis de la rue d'Orchampt. It was here, in a magnificent house on the Butte Montmartre, that Dalida lived from 1962 until her death in 1987, as indicated by a plaque affixed to the entrance of her former home.
Described by many as her refuge, this house impresses with its grandeur. Four floors make up this private mansion.
Not far from here, some 100 meters from her former home, is Place Dalida, where the famous bust in tribute to the singer has been installed. The bronze bust was created by sculptor Aslan and inaugurated in 1997, on the 10th anniversary of the singer's death.
To complete your pilgrimage in Dalida's footsteps, we recommend that you walk down rue Lepic to the Montmartre cemetery. It's here, in Division 18, not far from the main entrance, that Dalida is buried. With a statue of the icon and engraved sun rays, the tomb attracts crowds every year, and flowers constantly adorn the tombstone.
For a successful stroll, we recommend starting your tour at Place Dalida, easily reached from the Lamarck-Caulaincourt metro station (line 12). Continuing along rue Girardon, you'll easily reach rue d'Orchampt, where you'll find Dalida's former home. End your pilgrimage at the Montmartre cemetery (Place de Clichy metro station) to discover the singer's tomb.
