Saint Patrick’s Basilica is a Catholic church at 460 René-Lévesque Boulevard West in downtown Montréal. Built for the city’s growing Irish community and opened in 1847, it is a fine example of French Gothic Revival architecture. Inside, look for stained-glass windows, murals, fleur-de-lis and shamrock motifs, and pillars that appear to be marble but are white oak beams encased in marble. The high ceiling’s green and gold mosaics add another detail to take in. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
Built for Montréal’s Irish community
Saint Patrick’s Basilica opened in 1847 to serve the growing Irish immigrant community in Montréal. The church was designed by P.L. Morin and Father Félix Martin in the French Gothic Revival style. Pope John Paul II declared it a minor basilica in 1989.
The church is at 460 René-Lévesque Boulevard West, in an area now surrounded by modern downtown Montréal. Its original purpose and continuing place in the city’s English-speaking Catholic community give the building a distinct history alongside its architecture.
Look closely at the interior
Inside, stained-glass windows, murals and altar screens sit among details that combine Irish and French-Canadian motifs. Look for shamrocks and fleur-de-lis, as well as the green and gold mosaics across the ceiling.
The pillars supporting the arches are an unusual architectural detail. They are white oak beams encased in marble, giving them the appearance of stone columns. From the back of the church, the tall supports draw the eye toward the altar and vaulted ceiling.
Planning a visit
Saint Patrick’s is a place of worship as well as a historic church. Visitors can attend Saturday Mass at 5 pm; the service is open to everyone. Keep a respectful tone and allow worshippers space if a service is taking place.
Weekdays are a good choice for a quieter look around. Renovation work may affect access, so check ahead before setting out. The basilica has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Saint Patrick’s Basilica?
It is at 460 René-Lévesque Boulevard West in downtown Montréal.
When was Saint Patrick’s Basilica built?
It was built between 1843 and 1847 and opened in 1847 to serve Montréal’s Irish community.
What should I look for inside the basilica?
Look for stained glass, murals, altar screens, shamrock and fleur-de-lis motifs, green and gold ceiling mosaics, and marble-clad pillars made from white oak beams.
Can visitors attend Mass?
Yes. Saturday Mass at 5 pm is open to everyone.
