Perhaps it's the colors- vibrant sea foam green, dark cherry wood, coquettish robins egg blue and sharp accents of gold. Or the aroma, frankincense, welting max. There is a warmth all around, the energy of tranquility and peace resonate from within.
Whatever it is, Montreal's famed Notre-Dame Basilica is a true refuge and a work of astounding beauty.
No Trip to Montreal is Complete Without a Visit to the Notre-Dame Basillica
Built in 1824, the Notre-Dame Basilica is easily one of the most impressive structures in the historic district of Old Montreal.
Known in a more modern context as the place where Celine Dion got married, the Notre-Dame Basilica is home to a large collection of priceless religious art and archaeological finds.
Visited by Pope John Paul II, the Notre-Dame Basilica has been host to many prominent historical events and in 1989 was assigned the designation as a National Historic Site of Canada.
Despite the pomp and circumstance surrounding the Basilica, it runs as an active church. For the people, the Basilica offers a full host of religious services from mass to marriage, baptisms and funerals.
A site frequented by religious pilgrims, the Basilica is also open, for a nominal fee, to tourists.
I find during my travels that there are few things, more grounding and calming than visiting religious sites. I've visited mosques and temples, basilicas and shrines, each one, regardless of the religion it was attached to, resonated that special energy that comes from being in the presence of the "Divine." The Basilica is not just for Catholics or Christians.
Located in the heart of Old Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica is within easy walking distance of the water, restaurants and shops.
The cobblestone streets of Old Montreal are historic and unique. There's so much to do in the neighborhood, which feels like a suburb of Paris.
I still don't know if it's the colors, or the aroma, the stained glass, the velvety seats, but I am called again and again to the Notre-Dame Basilica. This wasn't my first visit and I'm sure it won't be my last. Montreal, is one of the most charming and unique cities in North America!
The Notre-Dame Basilica
11o Rue Notre-Dame O, Montreal, QC