St. Patrick's Basilica
Saint Patrick's Basilica is one of many beautiful churchs in Montreal
Montreal has a number of beautiful churches and basilicas and one of the most famous basilicas is Saint Patrick's Basilica. The basilica being named after Saint Patrick has historic links with the Irish community of Canada and is the oldest English speaking Roman Catholic church in Montreal.
The basilica is situated on René-Lévesque Boulevard in downtown Montreal and is worth the visit even if you have been to some of the other beautiful basilica's in the city. The architecture of Saint Patrick's Basilica is Gothic Revival unlike Saint Joseph's Oratory which is Italian renaissance. The Basilica was designed by P. L. Morin and Father Felix Martin and is a true master piece of the Gothic Revival style. Notably inside the church you will see a beautiful mosaic work on the ceiling and stained glass with much attention and detail going into the woodwork inside the basilica. The choir which performs selected services is made up of volunteers from the congregation with each section being led by professional singers. Mass takes place on a daily basis and is led by various of the parish's priests. There are also devotional services held weekly. Any Catholic, Irish or otherwise, feeling a little homesick should definitely pay the Basilica a visit to get a taste of home.
Not only is it a place of interest from a religious and an architectural perspective but also from a historical perspective especially for Irish Canadians living in Quebec. The Basilica has been named a National History Site of Canada. The Basilica now has the honorary title of minor basilica which was promoted by Pope John Paul II.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoSt. Patrick's Basilica Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 460 Boul. René-Lévesque O, Montréal, QC H2Z 1A7, Canada
Phone: (514) 866-7379
Official Website: St. Patrick's Basilica
St. Patrick's Basilica Reviews
Rated out of 5
This is a beautiful church situated René-Lévesque Blvd West in the city central of Montreal. It was constructed between 1843-47 to accommodate the vastly growing number of Irish immigrants in need of a place of worship. It was declared a minor basilica by Pope John II in 1989 and is known for St. Patricks Chimes (10 bells).
The church was designed by P.L. Morin and Father Felix Martin and is one of Canada's finest examples of French Gothic Revival style of architecture, highlighted by its impressive facade, 69 metre tall tower and spire and rose window. The interior is ornately decorated with murals, altar screens, fleur-de-lis and shamrock motifs and stained glass window panes. Well worth entering for a brief walk around if you enjoy seeing old Catholic churches during your travels.
Brad - a month ago
What an absolutely stunningly beautiful and mezmerizing holy place. This could be my favorite among all the great churche and basilikas in the entire Montreal region. The basilica is well kept, clean and gorgeous. The ceiling extends to the skies and the lighting transports one to thinking about heavenly matters. There are paintings of the journey of Jesus on the walls, reminding visitors of what ultimately in faith is most important.
sakke - a month ago
stumbled on this cathedral by accident on a walk and it's the best mistake i've made.
entrance is free and the inside was unbelievably gorgeous. the architecture of the building and all the paintings that adorned the walls were breathtaking, definitely worth the visit just to sit down and take in the beauty of the place
kazue - 5 months ago
You need to check this church out. It's so beautiful! My timing was great because the organist was practicing, and the music playing on the background made my visit appreciate more the intricacies of this church.
brenfmartinez - 5 months ago
Build in 1847, the oldest English speaking Catholic Church in Montreal. It’s a must visit, the church was well preserved. It features 3 altars and rosette stained glass window. The music 🎼 during mass was from their 1895 Casavant Freres pipe organ.
Flor Monton - 3 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 2 - Orange | Square-Victoria | 3 Minutes |
How to get to St. Patrick's Basilica by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to Station Square-Victoria and exit to Belmont Street. Walk straight south down Cote du Beaver Hall (the street to your left as you exit) and then turn left at Gauchetiere Street West. The basilica is set back from the park and steps just ahead on your left.
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Photo Gallery
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Interior of Saint Patrick's Basilica in Montreal cc licensed photo by Mike Durkin
