A Guide to Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal: Things to See and Do

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Montreal, Canada

I am quite fond of castles, grand churches, and other similar buildings.

These structures are often the most resilient to the passage of time, and there is always so much history within them. Not only can we explore, but we can also, for a moment, walk through history and marvel at the artifacts and stories of ages long past.

The best part, of course, is when we imagine how life and adventures could have been in such distant times.

The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is one of the most beautiful churches in Canada. As a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, this church, located within Old Port of Montreal, features vibrant stained glass, intricate carvings, and elaborate statues, among others.

In this short photography tour, I’ll show you all the great things about the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.

Notre-Dame Basilica: Important Information
Dimensions Length: 259 feet (79 meters), Width: 151 feet (45 meters), Height: 200 feet (61 meters).
Duration The recommended duration of visit is 30 to 60 minutes.
Best Time The best time to visit is around 8 am to 10 am (excluding Sunday, of course).
Cost You can find more information and check prices via the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal website.
Parking It’s better to visit this part of town by foot. Otherwise, you will have to park in the numerous parking structures nearby.
Special Considerations: There are numerous tours and even an “Aura” lightshow available at certain times. Refer to the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal website for more information.

Notre-Dame Basilica’s Story

From 1682 to 1830, the Notre-Dame Church was the main place of worship. By 1824, the congregation had completely outgrown the church. As a result, a new building was to be built—one that could support a congregation of up to 10,000. The construction of the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal took place between 1824 and 1829. In 1830, the Notre-Damn Church was demolished.

An Architectural Masterpiece

The Notre-Dame Basilica’s exterior somewhat resembles that of the Notre-Dame in Paris. Even though it is smaller in scale, this one maintains a similar shape.

While most visitors are distracted by what is in front of them, make sure to look behind you (toward the entrance) for an incredible view.

Of course, the main attraction is the apse and high altar toward the back of the church. Its masterful and beautiful design has drawn many visitors from all over the world.

As you explore the Notre-Dame Basilica, there will be many wonderful statues, stained glass windows, and intricate carvings all around.

Elaborate-Room-Notre-Dame-Basilica-Montreal-Canada
Stained Glass Windows, Notre-Dame Basilica’s, Montreal, Canada
Stained Glass Windows, Notre-Dame Basilica’s, Montreal, Canada

And that’s it for the photography tour. I wouldn’t want to spoil all the fun for you. I hope you have a wonderful time at this wonderful basilica!

The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is beautiful and elaborate. As one of the oldest churches in Canada, it’s filled with so much history and wonder. Of course, the photos provided here are but a small sample of the wonder hidden within. I highly recommend that you visit the Notre-Dame Basilica—easily one of the most popular attractions in Montreal.

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3 Comments
  1. Xavian
    Xavian says:

    Just wanna let you know that I really enjoy small little articles like this one. Some of the other ones are very thoroough, but there’s just so much information to digest, so I have to take my time with those. Sometimes I get saddened that I may never get to see these places, no matter how amazing you say they are. There’s just too many. These little photography tours let me appreciate some of these places and let me kinda pretend that I was there. I kinda get to live vicariously through you and that means a lot to me.

    Reply
    • Ace
      Ace says:

      Don’t say that, Xavian. I’m sure you’ll be able to go to many of these places if you plan and save accordingly.

      I know many people have limitations with travel, so I try to put as many good photos as possible so everyone can really see how amazing these places are.

      Reply

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