Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Montréal, Canada
1. Notre-Dame Basilica
A stunning Gothic-revival church known for its beautiful stained glass and twin towers.
- Stained Glass Artwork: Features the largest collection of stained glass in Canada.
- Historical Significance: Built between 1824 and 1829, it's a testament to Montreal's rich history.
- Popular Wedding Venue: Many weddings take place here due to its breathtaking interior.
2. St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
A national shrine dedicated to St. Joseph, located on the slopes of Mount Royal.
- Largest Church in Canada: It's the largest church in the country by area.
- Beautiful Views: Offers a panoramic view of Montreal from its top.
- Significant Pilgrimage Site: Attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year.
3. Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Shrine
A picturesque shrine on the banks of the St. Lawrence River dedicated to Sainte Anne.
- Seaside Location: Set on the beautiful shores of the Saint Lawrence River.
- Historic Chapel: The chapel is a national historic site of Canada.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Ideal for reflection and tranquility.
4. Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
A famous pilgrimage site located in nearby Beaupré, known for its miraculous statue.
- Miraculous Statue: The statue of Sainte Anne is said to have healing powers.
- Largest Church in North America: Houses the largest church in North America by volume.
- Scenic Location: Set amidst the beautiful Charlevoix region, offering stunning views.
5. Grotto Notre-Dame du Cap-de-la-Madeleine
A grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary, located in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
- Religious Significance: Believed by some to be a sacred site due to its resemblance to Lourdes, France.
- Scenic Location: Set in the stunning landscape of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
- Pilgrimage Route: Part of a popular pilgrimage route in Quebec.
6. Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church
A beautiful church located on Île Sainte-Hélène with a unique octagonal shape.
- Octagonal Design: One of the few churches in North America with an octagonal design.
- Historical Significance: Built for Expo 67 and has historical significance as a result.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil setting for reflection.
7. Saint-Sulpice Seminary
A historic seminary and church complex in Old Montreal with beautiful architecture.
- Historical Significance: Founded in 1657, it's one of the oldest institutions in Canada.
- Beautiful Architecture: Features a mix of architectural styles including Baroque and Neoclassical.
- Cultural Events: Hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts and exhibitions.
8. Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel
A beautiful chapel located on the St. Lawrence River with a red tile roof.
- Red Tile Roof: One of few remaining buildings in Montreal with a red tile roof.
- Maritime History: Originally built as a maritime chapel to protect sailors.
- Restoration Efforts: Undergoing restoration efforts to preserve its historical significance.
9. Saint-Joachim Church
A beautiful church located in Old Montreal with intricate stained glass windows.
- Stained Glass Artwork: Features some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in Montreal.
- Historical Significance: Built in 1853 and has historical significance as a result.
- Community Events: Hosts community events such as concerts, masses, and exhibitions.
10. Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes
A shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rivière-des-Prairies.
- Lourdes-inspired Design: Designed after the famous Lourdes sanctuary in France.
- Pilgrimage Site: A popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.
- Natural Surroundings: Set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, ideal for reflection and prayer.
11. Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Church
A beautiful church located on Île Saint-Jean with stunning views of the city.
- Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River.
- Historical Significance: Built in the mid-19th century, it has historical significance.
- Community Events: Hosts community events throughout the year.
12. Chapel of Saint Bridget
A small chapel located on the grounds of Mont-Royal Cemetery.
- Historical Significance: Built in the late 19th century and has historical significance.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
- Cemetery Setting: Set within the serene Mont-Royal Cemetery.
13. Saint-François-d'Assise Church
A stunning church located in Old Montreal with a unique bell tower.
- Unique Bell Tower: Features a unique bell tower with six bells.
- Historical Significance: Built in the mid-19th century, it has historical significance.
- Community Events: Hosts community events throughout the year.
14. Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Royal
A shrine located on Mount Royal dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 20th century, it has historical significance.
- Pilgrimage Site: A popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.
- Scenic Location: Set amidst the beautiful landscape of Mount Royal.
15. Shrine of Saint Anthony
A shrine dedicated to Saint Anthony located in Verdun.
- Religious Significance: Known for its miraculous statue of Saint Anthony.
- Scenic Location: Set amidst beautiful gardens and nature trails.
- Pilgrimage Route: Part of a popular pilgrimage route in Montreal.