Any local may instantly recognize the basilica’s structure and distinctive blue colors because it is situated in Old Montreal’s historic district. How much do you actually know about the historic church, though? The historical Gothic masterpiece is the subject of these fascinating facts.
1. It dates back about 200 years
To replace the Church of Notre-Dame, which first opened its doors in 1683, the cornerstone of Notre-Dame was placed in 1824. But it took decades to finish. The bell towers’ building was finally finished in the second half of the 19th century.
2. A Protestant architect created the present Basilica
Paradoxically, a Protestant Irish immigrant living in New York City created this famous Catholic building. James O’Donnell, who designed the future Basilica, had a lofty vision for it, and Victor Bourgeau, who directed the interior ornamentation, added to it. Together, they created a church that was vibrant, intricate, and ornamented with the intention of inspiring awe in its guests.
3. It’s a top monument in North America
Notre-Dame is one of the most visited landmarks on the continent, with over 11 million people annually. In comparison, Notre-Dame de Paris receives roughly 12 million visitors.
4. Host a few significant events
The basilica has hosted a number of significant occasions over the years, including Celine Dion’s wedding and the funerals of figures from Quebec history like Pierre Elliot Trudeau and Maurice Richard.
5. The organ contains 7,000 pipes
Within Notre-Dame, there is a four-keyboard Casavant Frères pipe organ with 7,000 pipes and 92 stops. It’s also older than 130 years.
6. The Bible is not depicted in the windows
The church’s east side windows include pictures from notable parishioners’ lives, while the west side windows feature scenes from Montreal’s past. French-made stained glass was used in the creation of the cartoons, which were produced by Quebec artist Jean-Baptiste Lagacé.
7. Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is a National Historic Site
It was elevated to the rank of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982, and it received the designation of a National Historic Site in 1989.
8. The bells are like the renowned clock tower in London
The bells ring every hour, increasing by one ring each hour, from 9 am to 6 pm. The melody that you hear is the same as that sung by Big Ben in the Westminster Carillon in London.
9. In the crypt of Notre-Dame, there is just one individual interred
The accomplishment of Notre Dame constituted the pinnacle of James O’Donnell’s career, despite the fact that he did not live to see the basilica’s final phases of completion. He actually desired to be buried inside its boundaries.
The fact that he was not Catholic presented an issue, though. O’Donnell became a Christian on his deathbed, and he is currently the only resident of the elaborate tomb he created.
