Oratoire St Joseph

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is truly one of Montreal’s most magnificent and peaceful landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons, architectural beauty, or simply to enjoy the panoramic view of the city, this place never disappoints. The architecture is breathtaking, combining grandeur and serenity in a way that instantly captures your attention. Inside, the main basilica is vast, calm, and filled with light, and the smaller chapels offer a more intimate and reflective atmosphere. Even if you’re not religious, you can feel the sense of peace and devotion that fills the space. The view from the top of Mount Royal is stunning, especially at sunset—you can see much of Montreal’s skyline and beyond. The gardens and surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained, perfect for a quiet walk or just sitting and taking in the view. There’s also a museum and a small gift shop that are worth visiting, and the staff and volunteers are kind and welcoming. The climb up the steps is symbolic for many visitors, and even if you just go halfway, it’s a meaningful experience. Overall, the Oratory is a must-see attraction in Montreal—a place that combines spirituality, history, and natural beauty in a way that stays with you long after your visit.
H&M - 2 months ago

An absolutely stunning and peaceful place. The architecture is impressive, both inside and out, and the views over Montreal are beautiful, especially on a clear day. Despite being a major landmark, it feels calm and reflective, which makes it a great place to slow down and take it all in. The interior is vast yet serene, and the history behind the Oratory adds real depth to the visit. Whether you are religious or not, it is worth coming here for the atmosphere alone. One of the most memorable spots in Montreal.
George Chalhoub - a month ago

Most serene sunset I have seen so far. People were sitting, playing instruments, enjoying the sunset. The best place to be in the evening is there. The church experience was also pretty nice, and the interior of the church has such intricate architecture – a must-visit place. There was a lot of crowd, so if you don't like crowds, maybe try taking seats a bit downstairs from the actual viewing points. Going down those long stairs revived the inner child in me.
Simran Ravish - a month ago

A place of many miracles, and a miracle indeed if you make it up the numerous stairs before finally reaching the front door! Saint Brother Andrew, the founder, really had our cardiovascular health at hearth when building the sanctuary. Nowadays known across the world, people of all faiths are welcome at the catholic shrine. It seems miraculous healing by the mighty angels and the great architect in the sky operates without discrimination. At first humbling by its size and location on the Mount-Royal, the Oratory is nonetheless a place of calm and serenity, to the point where you might hear thoughts flying around. For some a manifestation from the above, for others simply a wise architectural setting. You may come to your own conclusions while looking at the many orthoses hanging on the wall, left there by those healed graciously by ethereal manifestations, according to the legend. Close by, the heart of the Saint is kept in a room where worshippers may pay respect to the great man. Elegantly, His upper chapel (The Basilique) was built on Renaissance trends, although there are noticeable art-deco lines. As for the lower chapel, it is significantly set as a classic catholic church. Do look at the massive organ at the back of the upper chapel, it is really something, and especially great at listening to if someone is playing during mass. A walk outside and around the Oratory is interesting, might you wish to enjoy a sunset and the breeze from the balcony terraces or a stroll on the Chemin de la croix (Way of sorrows), and for sure don’t miss the original chapel the Saint build and lived in before the might of the Oratory was just barely a thought. May peace be conferred upon you all, and cheers!
Stephan Obarewicz - 2 months ago

The structure is majesticly divided into each floor. Perfect place to visit in the winter. From the ground, we slowly elevated up our way to the chapel and exhibits. The place is infused with history. On the top, there is a podium that offered a spot to overlook the city and where many people came for the sunset. Besides the 5 dollars parking fee, entry is totally free. Highly recommended!
Jason Kahei Wong - 4 weeks ago