Notre-Dame Basilica, jewel of Quebec's religious heritage

Feb 20, 2018
2 min read

My first visit to Basilica was a remarkable experience, which I will never forget.

It was a great feeling to arrive near the basilica and see the beautiful church.

Although it’s just 3 pm in the evening, it’s already cold - about -15 degrees Celsius and according to my virtual guide, Google, popularity time graph showed that location was not busy. It was dark in the evening, Christmas lights illuminating the whole city. The streets were very busy, full of shoppers marching from one shop to another. So, I decided to start my journey of Montreal starting with the Basilica.

I took the metro arrived near "Place d’Armes" which is one of the most beautiful and historical public squares in Montreal. It’s the best spot to enjoy the view of the outstanding Notre-Dame Basilica. I was fascinated seeing Maissonneuve`s prominent statue directly outside the basilica to celebrate his contributions to the religious congregation and the city.

As soon as I entered the Basilica, I was awestruck by the the bright blue of the ceiling, representing a starry sky, and what made it even more unique is the colored glass windows and the decorative patterning on the columns.

I then started taking a tour of the enormous collection of art masterpieces on the side halls. It is filled with hundreds of intricate wooden carvings and several religious statues.

As i continued my journey, i got chance to enjoy the luminous experience which highlights the architectural features of the Basilica and attend live music show. Please click here to read the second part where i featured videos and Images of the light and the music show.

Please click here to know how you can get there from Montreal downtown and Things to do.