If you’re a sucker for historic destinations and stunning sights, you’ll want to pay this national historic sight in Canada a visit. The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is a marvel of Gothic Revival architecture and here’s what to know.

According to Parks Canada, the Notre-Dame Roman Catholic Basilica National Historic Site of Canada is described as “a large Gothic Revival cathedral, built of ashlar limestone, whose twin towers mark the entrance to Lowertown, one of Ottawa’s earliest neighbourhoods.”

It dates back to the 1800s. Per the church, in 1839 plans to construct a stone church to replace its old wooden one, began. Construction kicked off two years later.

It is considered the oldest standing church in the city of Ottawa.

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According to the Basilica, this masterpiece was created entirely by a team of dedicated architects and talented sculptors. As for its interior design, the church states that “they were often the same men who worked on the ornamentation of the Parliament Buildings.”

When you step inside, you will be captivated by the towering Gothic arches running all along the interior. But, the most extraordinary feature of all is the collection of stained glass windows.

The first series of these windows was installed way back in 1879.

“These windows consist of geometrical motifs painted in grisaille and embellished by light touches of vivid colours,” the Basicila says.

One of the most impressive stained glass displays is the large window just above the main entrance. It is entrancing!

The cathedral is also home to a number of fascinating artifacts, most of which come from Europe and are of Italian origin.

These artifacts include a gold chasuble and several golden chalices decorated with medallions and precious stones.

If you’re a lover of history and exquisite architecture, you have to pay this incredible spot a visit.

And while you’re in Canada’s capital, make the most of it and explore all it has to offer.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

When: Daily from 9 AM to 6 PM/ Saturday & Sunday until 7 PM
Where: 385 Sussex Drive, Ottawa

Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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