Notre-Dame Basilica

Here stands a precious gem: the Notre-Dame Basilica, a magnificent neo-Gothic structure dating from 1824. With over a million visitors each year, it is not only the mother church of Montreal, but also the largest in the archdiocese. Stepping inside feels like entering a museum of sacred art—there is simply no match in Montreal for its rich ornamentation. A treasure trove with carved wood, paintings, stained glass, sculptures—every detail is a testament to Quebec’s religious heritage. Even though there’s an entrance fee, its stunning interior is really worth the visit. We owe it to Victor Rousselot, a parish priest inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle after his visit in Paris. You’ll recognise a few elements from the French church: the vibrant colors, gilded leaf motifs, and ornate columns. Later, a baptistery was added, along with what remains, to this day, the second-largest pipe organ in North America, installed in 1891. The basilica continues to host prestigious events, such as symphony concerts as well as state funerals. While the building has witnessed many important events over time, one that captured the hearts of modern-day Canadians was the wedding of Céline Dion and René Angélil, broadcast by over 200 media outlets worldwide. Today, Notre-Dame Basilica is the fourth most reputated religious building in North America, after St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, the National Cathedral in Washington, and Saint Joseph’s Oratory on Mount Royal. Obviously, it’s listed as a National Historic Site of Canada.