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Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal)

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Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal) (Canada)

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The Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and stands as one of the most remarkable religious buildings in North America. Built between 1824 and 1829 according to the designs of architect James O'Donnell, it was once the largest house of worship on the continent north of Mexico. While its exterior is defined by twin towers and a somber stone facade, the interior is world-renowned for its dramatic colors and intricate craftsmanship. The sanctuary is adorned with deep blue ceilings peppered with golden stars, exquisite wood carvings, and stained-glass windows from Limoges that depict the history of the city rather than biblical scenes. The basilica is home to a massive Casavant Frères pipe organ, one of the largest in the world, featuring 7,000 pipes. It has served as the venue for significant cultural events, including the state funeral of Pierre Trudeau and the wedding of Celine Dion. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada, the basilica remains an active place of worship and a top tourist destination, famous for its immersive 'AURA' light show.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-11-10-35131922211791-7
Rain mm72687695931099598881148198

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal is open to visitors and can be seen both from outside and inside. The interior is particularly impressive and is accessible to the public for an admission fee. The church is an active place of worship.
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Typical hours
The basilica typically has daily opening hours for tourists, which may vary by season. Usually, it is open from morning until early evening, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed inside the basilica to protect the artworks and atmosphere. A tripod is usually not permitted; use the existing lighting for atmospheric shots of the altar and colorful stained glass windows.
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Time needed
A visit to the basilica usually lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, including viewing the interior and sacristy. Those attending the "Aura" audiovisual show should allow an extra 30 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk through Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) and a visit to nearby Place Jacques-Cartier. The Pointe-à-Callière Archaeology Museum is also just a few minutes' walk away.
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Getting there
The basilica is in the heart of Old Montreal and is easily accessible by metro (Place-d'Armes station) or on foot. Public parking is available nearby but is often expensive and limited.
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Insider tip
Visit the basilica late in the afternoon when the light filters beautifully through the colorful stained glass. Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially in peak season.

Geography

Coordinates
45.50450, -73.55620

Facts

  • The basilica was constructed between 1824 and 1829 in the Gothic Revival style.
  • Architect James O'Donnell converted to Catholicism on his deathbed to be buried there.
  • The impressive Casavant Frères pipe organ features exactly 7,000 pipes.
  • The massive bell, 'Le Gros Bourdon,' weighs 11 tons and is the largest in North America.
  • It was designated a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II during his visit in 1982.
  • The stained glass was crafted in Limoges, France, and installed starting in 1929.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Old MontrealOld Montreal<1 km · NExplore →
Montreal Botanical GardenMontreal Botanical Garden2 km · EExplore →
La RondeLa Ronde3 km · NExplore →
Saint Joseph's OratorySaint Joseph's Oratory7 km · SExplore →
TerrebonneTerrebonne11 km · SEExplore →
BouchervilleBoucherville12 km · NExplore →
KahnawakeKahnawake14 km · SExplore →
LongueuilLongueuil16 km · NExplore →

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Sights in the town Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal) (9)

Galerie de Chine🏛 museum

Art gallery specializing in Chinese works near the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Monument-National🎭 culture

A historic theatre and performance venue near Notre-Dame Basilica in the Dame Basilica Montreal district.

♿

Club Soda🎭 culture

Concert venue in Montreal known for indie rock and electronic shows.

Carre d'artistes🏛 museum

Artist-run gallery in the Place d'Armes area near the basilica.

Les fortifications de Montréal - escarpe 1717 à 1806🏺 historical

Escarpment of Montreal’s fortifications built between 1717 and 1806, near the basilica.

Élément du mur de Berlin📍 landmark

A section of the Berlin Wall displayed near the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Galerie 203🏛 museum

Contemporary art gallery at 203 Rue Saint-Paul near the basilica.

Centaur Theatre🎭 culture

A theatre housed in a former stock exchange building in the Dame Basilica Montreal district.

Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle🌳 park

Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle is a public square in Montreal named after painter Jean-Paul Riopelle.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee for the basilica?
Yes, tourists pay an entry fee. Access for prayer is free of charge.
When does the Aura light show take place?
Usually in the evenings several days a week; tickets must be booked separately.
Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, but without flash and not during religious services.
What is special about the interior?
The deep blue ceiling with gold stars and the intricate wood carvings.
Is there a dress code?
Respectful attire is expected as it is a place of worship.
Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal): where is it located?
Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal) is located in Canada.
Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal): what is there to see?
Highlights include Galerie de Chine, Monument-National, Club Soda.
Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal): why is it worth visiting?
The Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and stands as one of the most remarkable religious buildings in North America.
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History & landmarks

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