Notre-Dame Basilica, representing the oldest Christian parish north of Mexico, has weathered a tumultuous history of bombardment, reconstruction, and restoration. In 2014 it celebrated 350 years as home to the mother parish to all of North America. Parts of the existing basilica date from the original 1647 structure, including the bell tower and portions of the walls, but most of today’s exterior is from the reconstruction completed in 1771. The interior, a re-creation undertaken after a fire in 1922, is flamboyantly neo-baroque, with glinting yellow gold leaf and shadows wavering by the fluttering light of votive candles. It’s beautifully maintained, with pews buffed to a shine. Paintings and ecclesiastical treasures still remain from the time of the French regime, including a chancel lamp given by Louis XIV. More than 900 people are buried in the crypt, including four governors of New France. Groups should reserve the 1-hour guided visits to the cathedral and the crypt in advance by phone.
Quebec City
Travel Guide
Quebec City› Attraction
Basilique Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec
20 rue Buade (at Côte de la Fabrique)
Our Rating
Hours
Cathedral Mon–Sat 7am–close (4, 5, or 8:30pm depending on season); Mass Mon–Fri 8am and 12:05pm; Sat 8am and 5pm; Sun 9:30 and 11am (and 5pm May–Oct)
Phone
418/694-0665
Prices
Free; donations encouraged. Crypt tour C$5.
Web site
Basilique Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec
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Map
20 rue Buade Quebec CityNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.