100, rue Notre-Dame Ouest (West)

One of my last visits before the pandemic restricted our activities was to see the Aura show presented in the Notre-Dame Basilica. While the show was short, it was nice to see the transformation of the basilica as the lights brought a new perspective.   Most of my visits over the years to this place was during day time, seeing this building and the Place d’Armes all lit gave it a different character and charm. 

Construction on the basilica started in 1824 and it opened in 1829. The Neo-Gothic style stands out and the three statues in front of the building represent Montreal (Virgin Mary), Quebec (St-Jean-Baptiste) and Canada (Saint-Joseph). The church is a jewel in Montreal with a beautiful structure, incredible interior wood work and stained glass art work that reveals the history and development of the city. The chapel, accessible from the side door, is also charming. The basilica is certainly a beautiful construction to see day or night but you might be missing on some public art if you only visit at night.

The Notre-Dame Basilica is often selected for significant religious events among which included the wedding of singer Celine Dion.

The basilica now charges visitors for admission but it is worth it.

It is one of the buildings surrounding the Place d’Armes in Old Montreal. In the same neighborhood you can see the New York Life building, Bank of Montreal Museum, , Aldred Building and more.

For an overview of Montreal click here.

For all posts on Montreal click here.

To know more on Old Montreal click here.

Other churches in Montreal click here.