Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel stands at 400 Rue Saint-Paul E in Old Montréal, near the Old Port. Built in 1771, it is one of the city’s oldest churches and is known as the Sailors’ Church. Inside, look for the small ship models suspended above the pews and the stained glass. The chapel is free to enter; a separate ticket gives access to the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and the tower lookout, with views over the port and city. The museum explores the chapel’s founder and Montréal’s early history.
A chapel shaped by Montréal’s port
Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is at 400 Rue Saint-Paul E, close to the Old Port. The present church was completed in 1771 on the site of an earlier chapel. Its founder, Marguerite Bourgeoys, was a teacher and a key figure in Montréal’s early history. She was later canonized as a saint in the Catholic Church.
The chapel became a place of pilgrimage for sailors arriving in the port. They prayed for safe voyages and gave thanks for their return. That connection earned the church its familiar name, the Sailors’ Church, and remains visible in its decoration.
Ships, glass and the chapel interior
Look up to see small ship models hanging from the ceiling. Sailors left these offerings in gratitude for safe passage. The nautical details continue in the chapel’s lighting, which includes miniature boat forms. Stained-glass windows and the church’s historic interior add to the sense of place.
The chapel also holds the tomb of Marguerite Bourgeoys. Visitors can enter the main building for prayer or to look around without buying a museum ticket. The church remains a place of worship, so keep your voice low and treat people who are praying with courtesy.
Museum and tower lookout
The Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum is dedicated to the chapel’s founder and the church’s place in Montréal’s history. Its displays include objects and documents connected to the chapel and the city. A guided visit can add context about Bourgeoys and the development of early Montréal. The site also includes an undercroft associated with Bourgeoys.
A separate ticket covers access to the museum and the tower lookout. From the upper viewpoints, you can see the Old Port, the river and parts of the city. Reaching the tower involves stairs, so factor that into your plans if climbing is difficult for you. Tickets in advance are recommended.
FAQ
Is Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel free to enter?
The main chapel is free to enter. You need a ticket for the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and tower lookout.
What is the Sailors’ Church known for?
Small ship models hang inside the chapel as offerings connected to sailors’ prayers and thanks for safe voyages.
Can you climb the tower at Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel?
Yes. A ticket for the museum and tower lookout includes access to views over the Old Port and Montréal. The climb involves stairs.
Who was Marguerite Bourgeoys?
She founded the chapel and was a teacher and an important figure in early Montréal. The museum is dedicated to her life and the chapel’s history.
