On rue Donnacona in Old Québec, the Chapelle des Ursulines is a historic Catholic chapel known for its carved wooden interior and religious art. Look for the gilded woodwork, stained glass, sculptures and paintings in the nave, along with two richly decorated altarpieces. The chapel’s layout separates the area for parishioners from the space used by the cloistered nuns. It also connects to the story of Marie de l’Incarnation and the Ursulines’ educational work in Québec City. Entry is free.
Marie de l’Incarnation and the Ursulines
Marie de l’Incarnation arrived in Québec City in 1639. The Ursuline convent she founded began as a girls’ school in 1642, making it the oldest convent of its kind in North America. The chapel is part of that history and reflects the Ursulines’ religious and educational work.
Marie de l’Incarnation is entombed within the chapel walls. Her connection to the site gives the visit a personal historical focus alongside the building’s art and architecture.
Sculpture and paintings in the chapel
The chapel interior was completed in 1723 and remains as it was then. French Regime-era sculptures and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries decorate the nave. Look closely at the carved wooden pulpit and the two richly decorated altarpieces, associated with sculptor Pierre-Noël Levasseur.
The Ursuline sisters gilded the chapel’s carved woodwork with gold leaf. The separate areas for parishioners and cloistered nuns also show how the chapel’s layout served the community that worshipped there.
FAQ
Is admission to Chapelle des Ursulines free?
Yes, entry is free.
What should I see inside Chapelle des Ursulines?
Look for the gilded wood carvings, the pulpit, two decorated altarpieces, stained glass, sculptures and paintings in the nave.
Who was Marie de l’Incarnation?
She arrived in Québec City in 1639 and founded the Ursuline convent, which began as a girls’ school in 1642. She is entombed in the chapel walls.
