Notre-Dame Basilica- Montreal, QC

Completed in 1829 (mostly), Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the world. Designed by James O’Donnell, with interior work by Victor Bourgeau, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America, with over 11 million visitors a year. 

The absolutely entrancing interior is filled with intricate wood carvings, religious art and saturated color. On the sides of the sanctuary, stained glass windows glow, depicting scenes from Montreal’s religious history. Above, the delicate vaulted ceiling is a painted a deep blue, punctuated with golden stars, indicating the path to heavenly happiness. The ornate alter is awash with blue, purple and red, which leads the eye right to the flanking statuary. 

Although all around impressive, the Basilica’s intricately carved Pulpit of Truth, with its spectacular staircase, is nothing short of magnificent. At it’s base, prophets Ezekiel and Jeremiah are carved in basswood, while above stand a series of statuettes representing Jesus, along with Saints Peter and Paul. It is absolutely breathtaking, and well worth the crowds you will encounter.