Christ Church Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral at 635 Sainte-Catherine Street West in downtown Montréal. Its Gothic Revival design brings pointed arches, a narrow nave and stained-glass windows into the middle of the commercial district. Step inside to see the vaulted ceiling, carved details and screen behind the altar; the interior also has a pipe organ. The cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Diocese of Montréal and a National Historic Site of Canada. Check its website for service times and concerts if you would like to attend an event.
A Gothic Revival church downtown
Christ Church Cathedral stands on Sainte-Catherine Street West, among downtown Montréal’s shops and buildings. Built in the 19th century, it is the cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of Montréal. Its Gothic Revival design draws on English medieval church architecture, with pointed arches, buttresses and turrets on the exterior. The plan is shaped like a cross.
The building was designed by British architect Frank Wills. Its design was modelled on Snettisham Parish Church in Norfolk, England, with details that connect it to its Montréal setting. The cathedral was built between 1857 and 1860, and is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada and a historic monument of Québec.
Details inside the cathedral
The interior has a narrow nave beneath a high ceiling, with arched vaults and columns. Look behind the altar for the screen, and take time to notice the stained-glass panels, each with its own design. Carved foliage on the Gothic arches draws on plants associated with Mount Royal when the church was built. Wood and marble details give the interior a more restrained character than the exterior.
The cathedral also has a pipe organ. The building continues to host Anglican services, along with concerts and community events. Its website lists service and event information, so check there if you want to plan your visit around one.
The spire and the underground mall
The cathedral’s spire has changed since the church was built. The original stone structure was too heavy for the foundations, which began to sink. It was removed in 1927, and a lighter aluminum spire designed to look like stone was installed in 1940.
In the 1980s, construction of the underground shopping area beneath the church required the cathedral to be suspended above the excavation. The project connected the site to Montréal’s underground commercial network. Today, the cathedral’s location makes it easy to combine a visit with a walk through the nearby Eaton Centre area.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Christ Church Cathedral free to visit?
The supplied information lists admission as free.
What should I look for inside Christ Church Cathedral?
See the stained-glass panels, vaulted nave, carved details and screen behind the altar. The cathedral also has a pipe organ.
Can I attend a service or concert?
The cathedral hosts services, concerts and community events. Check its website for the schedule before you go.
Where is Christ Church Cathedral?
It is at 635 Sainte-Catherine Street West in downtown Montréal, near the Eaton Centre.
