One of the most famous religious buildings of Quebec province, Saint Joseph's Oratory is also among the ten best-known symbols of Montreal city. The sanctuary is also a main tourist attraction with his two million visitors received annually.
Visible beyond the north region of Montreal, Saint Joseph's Oratory of the Mount-Royal is located on the northern side of the Mount Royal mountain. It is the only building in the city of Montreal to point higher than the three peaks of the Mount Royal.
Built according to the initiative of the brother Andre (Andre Bessette) over a period that lasted more than 40 years nera his first chapel (Always in place), the oratory is a place of pilgrimage, the most popular of the Greater Montreal.
The oratory is a Catholic place of worship under the management of the congregation Sainte-Croix (founded by Father Basile Antoine Moreau).
Its huge dome of 39 m diameter is one of the greatest self ported domes in the world.
Several element have interest for visitors; Gravesite of brother André, the first Chapel of Brother André, A Way of the Cross outdoors and the heart of brother Andre. The oratory du Mont-Royal is also famous for its staircase of 99 steps reserved for pilgrims who wish to climb on their knees. The Oratory also provides services such as a library, a research center and archives.
The basilica have a capacity of 2 200 Christians. Located at the foot of the basilica, the oratory also has a crypt (inaugurated in 1917) that can accommodate up to 1000 people. The crypt has beautiful stained glass, made by Perdriau and O'Shea
The architectural style of the basilica have an Italian renaissance inspiration.
Schedule for different services and rooms.
Basilica and exhibition on the brother André
Every day from 7 am 00 to 21 h00
From 3 September 2007 to May 6, 2008: Every day from 7 am 00 to 17 h 30
Saturday and Sunday: 7 am 00 to 19 h 00
See also The chapel of Brother Andre
Near Metro station Côte-des-Neiges
