Basilica of Mary Queen of the Apostles
Centre
The Basilica of Mary Queen of the Apostles in Montreal is a majestic minor basilica modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, reflecting a unique Roman Renaissance style. Constructed between 1875 and 1894, it was commissioned by Bishop Ignace Bourget to replace the former Saint-Jacques Cathedral. This basilica stands out as the third largest church in Quebec, featuring a 101-meter length and a prominent 77-meter-high dome with a 23-meter diameter. The interior houses richly decorated chapels, including the baptistery with a marble font and a mortuary chapel with Italian marble and mosaics. The basilica honors the Canadian Papal Zouaves, whose names are inscribed inside, commemorating their defense of the Papal States. Consecrated originally as Saint James Cathedral, it was elevated to a minor basilica in 1919 and rededicated in 1955 to Mary, Queen of the World. It holds a significant cultural and religious position in Montreal, located downtown near major transport hubs and forming a dominant presence on Dorchester Square.
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Astuce: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Consider purchasing tickets in advance during special events or religious ceremonies. The basilica is accessible via Bonaventure metro station and is near Central Station, making it convenient for travelers. Guided tours may enhance the experience by providing deeper historical context. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups.
Faits intéressants
- •The basilica is the third largest church in Quebec after Saint Joseph's Oratory and the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.
- •507 Canadian Papal Zouaves who defended the Papal States have their names engraved inside the basilica.
- •The dome has a diameter of 23 meters and reaches a height of 77 meters, dominating Montreal's skyline.
- •The burial chapel contains the tomb of Bishop Ignace Bourget, crafted in Rome and completed in 1933.
- •The basilica was originally consecrated as Saint James Cathedral and later rededicated to Mary, Queen of the World in 1955.
Histoire
The basilica was built following the destruction of the former Saint-Jacques Cathedral by fire in 1852.
Bishop Ignace Bourget initiated its construction to rival the Neo-Gothic style favored by other religious groups, opting instead for a scale model of St.
Peter's Basilica.
Construction began in 1875, with the church consecrated in 1894 as Saint James Cathedral.
It was designated a minor basilica in 1919 and rededicated in 1955 to Mary, Queen of the World.
The building underwent restoration between 1955 and 1960 and was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 2000.
Recent renovations have preserved its exterior and interior grandeur.
Guide du lieu
Baptistery Chapel
A small chapel dedicated to baptism ceremonies featuring a marble baptismal font mounted on a stucco crucifix sculpted by Louis-Philippe Hébert, showcasing exquisite religious art.
Bishops' Mortuary Chapel1933
Located on the east wall of the basilica, this chapel houses the tomb of Bishop Ignace Bourget and the remains of other titular and auxiliary bishops. The chapel is adorned with Italian marble floors and walls, mosaics, and a bronze plaque depicting St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.