Montreal is a famous Canadian city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. One of the city's attractions is the Notre Dame de Montreal Basilica: people from all over the world dream of seeing it. It is the first Catholic church in Canada , one of the largest in the country. Tourists are attracted not only by the size of the basilica, but also by the indescribably beautiful decor (exterior and interior), the stained glass windows and the special sound of the organ. Basilica has a special atmosphere beyond words. Every person who appreciates the architecture of past centuries should visit here.
History of construction
In 1672 a small church was built on the site of the basilica: it was the center of the city and served as a landmark, but the city was growing rapidly and the church quickly outgrew its capacity. The question of building a new cathedral was raised many times over the decades, but it was not until 1824 that a decision was made: contact architect James O'Donnell to design and build a large temple for the people of Montreal.
Construction of Montreal's cathedral began in 1829, but it dragged on:
- In 1830, builders erected the nave.
- In 1842, the first tower was erected
- In 1872, the building was completed
- In 1879 the finishing work was completed
- In 1888 the chapel was built.
- In 1888, the first Mass was held in the cathedral building, but 90 years later, the city experienced a major fire that damaged the church. When the building was rebuilt, the interior of the chapel was remodeled.
Feature of the legendary cathedral
The cathedral is located 60 meters above the city and has a unique neo-Gothic style. The building was erected of natural stone and resembles the famous Notre Dame in Paris. The square towers are located on either side of the main entrance and are named "Restraint" and "Fortitude". Above the entrance are three pointed arches. The sound of the bells can be heard up to 15 kilometers away and is amplified by strong winds.
The interior of the temple is amazing for anyone: it is beautiful and elegant, the walls are decorated with paintings in the festive style, many carved wooden elements. The temple is rich in gilding. The main parts are painted in blue tones, because there is always a solemn atmosphere. A spiral staircase with carved elements and wooden sculptures leads to the department. The stained glass was brought all over the world from the French city of Limoges.
The temple has a pipe organ, one of the largest in the world: choral and organ concerts with famous works, including compositions from contemporary films, are held here. You can buy a concert ticket for $12 CAD for an adult, $8 CAD for a child under the age of 14.
On Saturdays you can get married in the cathedral. A Catholic service is held every Sunday, during which admission to the cathedral is free. On other days the entrance for tourists is paid: for adults - 6 CAD $, for children under 14 years - 4 CAD $. The one-hour tour costs CAD $12 for an adult and CAD $8 for a child under the age of 14. Funds raised go toward repairing the basilica and keeping it in good condition.
Interesting facts about Notre Dame de Montreal Basilica
- James O'Donnell moved from New York City to build the cathedral.
- The bell of the west tower weighs 12 tons, the largest in North America.
- The organ installed in the cathedral has 7,000 pipes.
- In 1994, popular Canadian pop singer Celine Dion was married in the basilica.
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The object belongs to the temples.
