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| - Built on the Place d'Armes in the 1820s to replace a smaller Catholic church, it can house upwards of 4,000 people at time. It's probably the most imposing building on the square and if you think the exterior is impressive, you should see the interior which was inspired by Paris' Sainte-Chappelle. It's dark inside, so photos don't turn out well, but the darkness serves to better see the stained glass windows that depict Montreal's beginnings and are the highlight of the church. The carvings on the pulpit and the organ are also worth inspecting. The Chapelle du Sacre-Coeur behind the main altar (you have to wind your way to the back) is definitely a must-see and is a recently rebuilt addition (circa 1980s) so it's much more modern than the rest of the church. The bronze sculpted altarpiece in the chapel was my favorite thing in the church. (The chapel is often used for weddings and baptisms by the local congregation, so it can be closed for touring.) There also is a private glassed-in chapel in the back for people interested in praying.
In addition to self-guided touring, the church also offers guided tours in different languages, a "light" show every evening and an organ performance on the odd Wednesday. The church charges an admission fee of $5 (which is weird for something that I believe should be free to enjoy), and the guided tours and shows are extra. Extra donations for upkeep are encouraged. Because of the admission, the church has hours (so check the website). The church is a hike up a hill from the Place d'Armes Metro stop on rue Sainte-Sulpice.
It's only 4 stars on the principle that they are a public charity that charges admission (which I think is...not tasteful in any way). That being said, it's still a must-see for art and architecture lovers and has the best example of religious art in the city.
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