About Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal
Notre-Dame Basilica stands on the Place d'Armes in Old Montreal, on the site of a parish church founded in 1672. Its present building, designed by Irish American architect James O'Donnell, opened in 1829 and was among the largest churches in North America for decades. Montreal itself was founded in 1642 as a missionary settlement, and this parish carried that heritage forward through the city's history. The church was raised to the rank of minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982.
The interior is unforgettable: a vault of deep blue scattered with gold stars, intricately carved wood, and stained glass that tells the history of Montreal rather than Bible scenes. The Casavant organ has thousands of pipes. Behind the main altar, the intimate Sacred Heart Chapel was rebuilt after a fire in 1978. Masses continue, alongside evening light shows. Céline Dion was married here. Its splendor has long made it a beloved setting for weddings and grand concerts.
What to see
- Blue and gold vaulted interior
- Carved pulpit and altarpiece
- Casavant Freres organ
- Sacred Heart Chapel
- Stained glass of Montreal history
Visiting Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal: practical guide
- Best time
- Year round
- Hours
- Open daily for visits outside service times
- Entry
- Paid entry for visits; free for worship
- Dress code
- Respectful clothing
- Nearest airport
- Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL), 20 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Book the evening light show in advance
- Attend Sunday Mass to hear the organ
- Explore Old Montreal on foot
Festivals and special days
- Christmas concerts and Midnight Mass
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal?
Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal is in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, North America. GPS coordinates: 45.5045, -73.5562. The nearest airport is Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL), 20 km.
What is the best time to visit Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal?
Year round
Is there an entry fee for Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal?
Paid entry for visits; free for worship Opening hours: Open daily for visits outside service times
What should I wear when visiting Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal?
Respectful clothing
Which religion is Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal sacred to?
Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship.
