Notre Dame Basilica
If you appreciate beautiful historical buildings and architecture the Basilica of Notre-Dame is a must see
One of Montreal's most impressive historical sites is the Basilica of Notre-Dame. Referred to as a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, both the outside and inside of the Basilica are displays of architectural ingenuity.
The Basilica built between 1824-1829 is the work of James O'Donnell an architect from New York and then later (1870-1900) Cure' Victor Rousselot and Victor Bourgeau. When standing outside the Basilica looking up you will see the twin towers looming over you in all their majesty. The western tower is called 'Perseverance' and the eastern tower called 'Temperance'. Each tower is home to the church bells of the Basilica. Perseverance houses the great bell nick-named 'Jean- Baptiste' whilst Temperance houses 10 smaller bells.
The inside of the Basilica is impressive with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, sculptures, statues and paintings. But what is even more impressive are the fine details which have gone into creating the Gothic style of the church. The columns, the organ, the church pews, the banisters, the pulpit and the altarpiece are all meticulously and beautifully crafted. The use of rich colours makes one feel as if you are in a spring garden or in some heavenly realm. At night time you can also experience a sound and light show within the Basilica which is bound to make your experience even more so memorable.
In addition to the sound and light show, the Basilica of Notre-Dame also hosts many concerts by various orchestras and other music groups. Admission to these concerts does vary from the admission to the actual Basilica, so be sure to check the website for more details on admission for the concerts. In order to be able to truly experience the majesty of a service at the Basilica, one must attend one of the religious events held there. The traditional organ is played and a traditional church choir leads the worship.
To get a true sense of the history of Montreal you have to visit the basilica for what would a visit to a French city in Canada be without a visit to its Sacré-Cœur.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Various admission fees apply, see the website for the full fee schedule.Notre Dame Basilica Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 – 4:00 PM
Address: 110 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H2Y 1T1, Canada
Phone: (514) 842-2925
Official Website: Notre Dame Basilica
Notre Dame Basilica Reviews
Rated out of 5
A crowned jewel at the heart of the historic center of Montreal, where celebrities wed or receive a final homage after crossing the last bridge. It is also a place to reconvene for other momentous events, such as college graduation or midnight mass on Christmas eve. The latter is especially divine when choirs elevate the mass. The interior of the church is considered by some a masterpiece of gothic revival architecture, having been named the 6th most beautiful building in the world by the publication Angi, Notre-Dame de Paris being second and Gaudi’s Sagrada Família first. The vaults are coloured deep blue and decorated with golden stars, letting the pilgrims gather their thoughts and prayers in an inspiring awe. The rest of the sanctuary is decorated in blues, azures, reds, purples, silver, and gold, and with hundreds of sophisticated wooden carvings, giving the Cathedral an even more grandiose stance. Uniquely, the stained glass windows depict scenes from the religious history of Montreal, instead of the usual biblical scenes. Facing the altar is a beautiful and impressive Casavant pipe organ, comprising four keyboards and a hefty 7000 pipes. Approximately 11 million people come at Notre-Dame yearly, making it one of the most visited monuments in North America. Enjoy your visit and may peace be conferred upon you all.
Stephan Obarewicz - 5 months ago
Visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal was an unforgettable experience. The architecture is absolutely stunning, and the details inside are breathtaking. The atmosphere is peaceful and inspiring, making it a perfect place to reflect and admire the beauty.
The location is very convenient, and the staff were helpful and welcoming. It is truly one of the most beautiful landmarks in Montreal and a must-visit for anyone coming to the city. I highly recommend it.
Taiwo Seun - 4 months ago
it is a beautiful basilica, the architecture is magnificent and you can feel a sense of spirituality. attended the AURA show and it was magical, no recording is allowed and staff will call you out, so please don’t record the show, instead enjoy it! once the show is over, you will have plenty of time to walk around the basilica, click pictures and light a candle as well. Donations are appreciated.
if you visit the basilica during the regular hours, you have to buy a ticket, so in my opinion you can buy the ticket for AURA show and immerse in the experience and spend time in the basilica as well.
buy tickets in advance to save some time!
Jasleen Kaur - 6 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 2 - Orange | Place-d'Armes | 4 Minutes |
How to get to Notre Dame Basilica by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to Place-d'Armes; exit and go right (south) on St. Urbain Street. You will see the Basilica straight ahead as you approach.
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Photo Gallery
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Some of the incrediblily beautiful details inside Montreal's Notre-Dame Basilica cc licensed photo by Ryan Hyde -
Photo Credit: kasio69 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Gord McKenna - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: szeke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: dgjarvis10@gmail.com - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Joe Passe - cc license via Flickr
