Notre-Dame Basilica

Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most visited and iconic monuments in North America, located in the heart of the historic district of Old Montreal. With over 11 million visitors annually, it is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Montreal.

The church is situated at 110 Notre-Dame Street West, at the corner of Saint Sulpice Street, adjacent to the Saint-Sulpice Seminary, and overlooking the stunning Place d'Armes square.

This architectural masterpiece was designed by James O'Donnell and built in the Gothic Revival style, with an interior that boasts an intricate and ornate design that is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who created it.

Visitors to the Basilica will be in awe of the soaring ceilings, stunning stained glass windows, and impressive pipe organ, all of which contribute to the building's serene and majestic atmosphere.

In 2023, the Notre-Dame Basilica was ranked as the 6th most visually stunning architectural wonder globally by Angi, a publication focused on home services that evaluates TripAdvisor reviews.

The ranking places the Basilica in esteemed company, with the likes of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and Notre-Dame de Paris, which came in first and second place respectively. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable cultural experience, a visit to the Notre-Dame Basilica is a must when in Montreal!

The interior of the Notre-Dame Basilica is a true marvel of Gothic Revival architecture and its interior decoration is considered one of the most dramatic in the world. Adorned with vibrant colors such as blues, purples, silver, azures, reds, and gold, the sanctuary is a feast for the eyes.

The vaults are particularly noteworthy, with their deep blue hue and golden stars adding to the grandeur of the space. Visitors can admire hundreds of intricate wooden carvings and numerous religious statues, which lend an air of serenity to the basilica.

The two towers of the church each possess their own unique bells. One of them, the West Tower, has a bourdon bell named Jean-Baptiste, which was created in John Dod Ward's Eagle Foundry in 1848 and weighs a staggering 10,900 kg.

This bell is typically reserved for special occasions such as funerals, major church celebrations, and even Christmas Eve. In contrast, the ten-bell carillon located in the East Tower was created by the Eagle Foundry on May 24, 1842.

One of the unique features of the Notre-Dame Basilica is that its stained glass windows do not depict biblical scenes, unlike other churches. Instead, they showcase scenes from the religious history of Montreal, making them a testament to the city's heritage.

The Casavant Frères pipe organ is another highlight of the basilica. This impressive instrument dates back to 1891 and boasts four keyboards, 92 stops using electromagnetic action, an adjustable combination system, 7000 individual pipes, and a pedal board.

The harmonious notes emanating from the organ add to the already enchanting atmosphere of the basilica! So what are you waiting for? Book Best of Montreal Dessert Walking Tour now to see this stunning building while feasting on the best food Montreal has to offer along the way!