Saint Joseph's Oratory

Saint Joseph\'s Oratory showing a statue or sculpture, heritage architecture and a city
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Sitting high above the city, this modern basilica and “house of miracles” offers tranquility, soaring Italian Renaissance architecture and Montreal’s best views.

Saint Joseph’s Oratory church was founded in 1904 by Brother André Bessette. After the congregation rapidly outgrew the church twice, construction began on a third church in 1924. The modern 3,000-seat church that resulted is still the largest church in Canada, and its copper dome is one of the world’s largest.

Built on the slopes of Mount Royal, the hill at the heart of Montreal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory towers over the city around it. Walk up the steps of the long promenade to the church’s balcony and enjoy views that stretch for miles. Look for the Rivière des Prairies in the distance, which borders the island of Montreal to the north.

The inside of the church is open and brightly lit. Angular arches run along the nave, and colored lighting adds cheer to the tall ceilings. During his lifetime, Brother André gained a reputation for having healing powers and was later canonized as a saint. Look around the church to see the crutches hanging from the walls which are a testimony to his special gift.

Check out the votive chapel, which features a dazzling display of light and color. Long slopes of red and green candles lead up to an illuminated statue of Saint Joseph, patron saint of Canada. A blue light illuminates him from above.

Pay a small fee to visit the oratory museum which contains holy relics including the heart of Brother Andrè. The museum also contains over 200 nativity scenes collected from all over the world.

Getting to Saint Joseph’s Oratory involves uphill walking, regardless of what form of transportation you take. There is a bus stop at the end of the promenade and the closest metro stops are several blocks to the west. The church offers parking, but it charges a fee on all days except Sunday. Despite the many steps leading up to its doors, the church is completely wheelchair accessible.

Compare 2,514 hotels close to Saint Joseph's Oratory with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Hotel 2170 Lincoln Downtown Montreal
Hotel 2170 Lincoln Downtown Montreal
2 out of 5
2170 Av. Lincoln, Montreal, QC, H3H 1J3
The price is $109 per night from Mar 26 to Mar 27
$109
per night
Mar 26 - Mar 27
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Montreal. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and onsite parking. Popular attractions Sherbrooke Street and Montreal Museum ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (189 reviews)
"Well maintained, excellent customer service from front desk staff and dining staff. Hot breakfast. Free wifi and gym room. Did not like the off site parking. Overall a great space away from home."

Reviewed on Mar 23, 2023

Hotel 2170 Lincoln Downtown Montreal
Hotel Bonaventure Montreal
Hotel Bonaventure Montreal
4 out of 5
900 rue De La Gauchetiere West, Montreal, QC, H5A1E4
The price is $125 per night from Apr 16 to Apr 17
$125
per night
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Montreal. Enjoy free WiFi, hot springs on site, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,882 reviews)
Will be back
"Gorgeous and comfortable stay! Everyone was courteous and friendly. We cannot wait to visit again!"

Reviewed on Mar 23, 2023

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal
Hotel Omni Mont-Royal
Hotel Omni Mont-Royal
4.5 out of 5
1050 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, H3A2R6
The price is $139 per night from Apr 6 to Apr 7
$139
per night
Apr 6 - Apr 7
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Montreal. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the comfy ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,218 reviews)
"We had a great stay. The hotel staff were very helpful and friendly. Everything was within walkable distance. The hotel was clean and well situated in the heart of Montreal. I would definitely stay there again."

Reviewed on Mar 21, 2023

Hotel Omni Mont-Royal
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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