The most spectacular Catholic Church in North America | Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is one of the oldest examples of Gothic Revival religious architecture in Canada. Also, in 1989, the Basilica was designated a national historic site of Canada.

Construction of the Notre-Dame Church began in 1824 and was completed in 1829, and it was consecrated on 15 July 1829.

The architect was James O’Donnell, an Irish immigrant to New York City. Its interior decor, which was overseen by Victor Bourgeau, along with its rich ornamentation, are unique and evoke a true sense of wonder in visitors.

Notre-Dame Basilica rises from the middle of Old Montreal. It receives some 2,500 visitors per day in peak season.

The building can accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 worshippers and remains to this day the largest church in North America.

The pulpit is 14 metres high, It was sculpted by artist Louis-Philippe Hebert(1850-1917).

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A huge pipe organ sits at the back of the church. It consists of 7,000 pipes.

You have to pay for C$6 to enter in. A 20-minute guided tour in English is included in the price of admission and is offered twice every hour.

It is a Canadian national icon, hosting such high-profile events as Pope John Paul II’s 1984 visit and Celine Dion’s 1994 wedding.