Saint Joseph's Oratory Guide
A Beacon of Faith: Discover Saint Joseph's Oratory Guide
Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal is a stunning basilica and national shrine perched atop Mount Royal in Montreal. It's a place of pilgrimage, architectural grandeur, and spiritual solace, attracting visitors from around the world. Whether you're drawn by its religious significance, its impressive architecture, or the panoramic views of the city, the Oratory offers a memorable experience. The Oratory's history began with Saint André Bessette, a humble Holy Cross brother, who believed Saint Joseph had cured his illness. He began building a small chapel in 1904, which quickly grew in popularity. As the number of pilgrims increased, the chapel was expanded, eventually leading to the construction of the magnificent basilica we see today. The basilica's dome is one of the largest in the world, second only to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The Oratory continues to be a place of healing and prayer, with many visitors seeking Saint Joseph's intercession. Visitors can explore the basilica's interior, marvel at the stained-glass windows, and visit the original chapel built by Saint André. You can also climb the 283 steps to the basilica's entrance (or take the bus!). The Oratory Museum houses a collection of religious art and artifacts. Don't miss the votive chapel, filled with crutches left by those who believe they were healed through Saint Joseph's intervention. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of Montreal.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Saint Joseph's Oratory is by bus. * **Bus 166 (Queen Mary):** This bus runs along Queen Mary Road and stops directly in front of the Oratory. You can catch this bus from the Snowdon metro station (Blue and Orange lines). * **Bus 51 (Édouard-Montpetit):** This bus stops near the Édouard-Montpetit metro station (Blue line). From there, it's a steep but manageable walk up the hill to the Oratory.
Opening Hours
10 AM to 5 PM
Ticket Price
Free admission to the Oratory. Donations are welcome. There is a fee for the museum.