Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum
A magnificent old chapel, a museum and an archaeological site all in one, there is much to explore at Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
Montreal has not just one, but two Notre-Dame churches, both located in Old Montreal. The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is a magnificent building, both inside and out.
The chapel that is currently on the site was built in 1771 which is very old by North American standards. It replaced the original Chapel which was completed in 1678 but later, with the exception of the stature and the reliquary, was destroyed by a fire in 1754.
Located on the Saint Lawrence River the chapel was a popular place of worship and prayer for sailors who came into the port and thus became widely known as the sailor's church. Replicas of sailing ships hang from the ceiling as a reminder of this heritage. Speaking of the ceiling, it, along with the rest of the interior, are nothing short of spectacular.
A visit to the chapel would not be complete without also visiting the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum located within. Marguerite Bourgeoys who lived in the 17th century was the first teacher in Montreal and it was her who founded the original Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The museum features a collection of art and artifacts that highlight the culture and history surrounding the chapel and its founder.
A bonus to visiting the museum is the opportunity to go up into the chapel tower which will afford you an excellent view of the Old Port of Montreal and the Saint Lawrence river.
But wait - there is even more to this interesting site! Below the floor of the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours is a remarkable archaeological site that was unearthed in 1996-1997 that unearthed not only the foundations of the original chapel and evidence of the fire, but also native artifacts dating back more than 2400 years; fascinating stuff indeed.
You can also inquire if there is an expert guide available to explore the museum with you in person. When available, there is no additional charge for this service.
Note that the museum is closed from the middle of January through April 30th except for prearranged group tours.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesNotre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 400 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H4, Canada
Phone: (514) 282-8670
Official Website: Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel Reviews
Rated out of 5
A very small church at the end of at. Paul old Montreal. Got in with a a curiosity and was so impressed. Had a very calming effect. Sat there for some time as the choir / orchestra was playing. No charges except for the museum. Also had a very nice store , reasonably priced. Highly recommend
Jaskinder Shingwekar - 2 weeks ago
Beautiful chapel and interesting museum! Lots of information!
You can have a great view at the top! In summer and mid-winter the view is great at the top!
Free Museum day on the 1st Sunday of each month!
Alexandre Benoit - a month ago
The chapel is beautiful with colourful stained glass windows. There is a museum and the Candlelight concerts also take place there. Has a nice view from the tower. Paid street parking.
Rosser Costantino - a week ago
A must visit if you are in the Old Montreal/ port area. The chapel is small but the frescos and stained glass work is ornate. The gift shop has some reasonably priced items as well. The chapel sure does have a divine presence.
There is no entry fee for this chapel but the museum inside the chapel area does have a fee of around 14CAD per person.
Aneesh Shingwekar - 2 weeks ago
Amazing.
One of the most important and iconic tourist attractions in Montreal.
It is located in front of Place d’Armes.
It was built more than 300 years ago and has a very rich religious collection inside.
You need to pay to visit inside.
Tip: There is a "hidden" beautiful place, just behind the main attraction, beside the wash rooms.
Eduardo Barroso Ferreira - 5 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 2 - Orange | Champ-de-Mars | 5 Minutes |
How to get to Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel by Metro
By Metro: Make your way to Champ-de-Mars Metro Station on Line 2 and take the Saint_Antoine Sud (South) exit. Walk to your right (south) along Rue Gosford to Rue Saint Paul and turn to your left. The chapel is on the right hand side just beyond Bonsecour Market.
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Accommodations near Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel:
Photo Gallery
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Looking towards Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours and Bonsecours Market from Rue St-Paul cc licensed photo by Yuri Long -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr
