Reviews of Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal (Tourist Attraction)

Aditya Ambati

So fortunate enough to experience this place during my visit in Montreal. The interiors were magnificent, unlike anything I have seen in my life.This was heaven on earth. For anyone reading my review, visit the place right after sunset (6/7pm) and you can see the sky's turn grey and city lights glow and I promise it would be a breathtaking experience :) God is Great ????

I. Kamala

Beautiful, very interesting how they build it. Really recommended to visit st.Joseph oratory if you are in Montreal, it’s a must see.

Man Singh

Beautiful Church in Montréal I think it’s the biggest church in North America a beautiful holy place I really loved it

Cynthia De Sua

Beautiful oratory, haven't been in a few years. They are working on some renovations, can't wait to see it when it's done.

Abhirup Chatterjee

Beautiful place, Beautiful church inside and the city view is spectacular.

Nandan Vaidya

There was a line-up for the entry on the Christmas eve. Nice peaceful place with a great view of the city.

Farwa Zaidi

Beautiful architecture and ripe with spiritual experience, a must stop for anyone visiting Montréal.

Ryker

Super cool! I was there on vacation and I didn’t know what to expect but it was ginormous! So many different rooms and it was super fun to explore. Great assistance from staff and most things were translated into English as well as being in French. It’s all self guided with an exception of a paid exhibit. I loved it!

Vanessa Kennedy

The outside of the church is quite impressive but the inside wasn't as grand as I thought it would be. It was a cool place to see and the history is quite interesting but I wouldn't go again.

Madhusudanan Raghavan

A nice historical place to visit. Takes about 2 hrs in total with moving tourist volumes

Neil D'Penha

A very Beautiful piece of Architecture. A lot of lovely work in the interior as well as exterior. Highly recommend walking up the steps from the exterior of the church to go to different levels and don't forget to take a moment and take a look at the view from the topmost level. Reminds me of the view in Athens. Take time to view the gardens towards the back of the Oratory. Absolutely worth the visit when you're in the city.

Pedro Goncalves

I've been a lot of churches in my life and I'm sorry to say that there was nothing special about this one expect for it's size. When you enter, you don't feel like you are entering Holy ground. It's just felt like a massive open space and mainly impressive for that reason. There were certain parts that were really nice and beautiful. My apologies but this my humble opinion.

SaBa Abd

Climbing the stairs is easier than it seems from bottom. On top you could have wide perspective of Montreal.

Nayan Rajgor

Nice place to visit for all. They just keep allowing cars even though the park space is full. Could be monitored a little bit better. Parking is 5$ donation (all day).

Steffi Ernest

Very beautiful place! A must visit for tourists!

Sreeja

This basilica has my heart!! Brace for a long review because I want to share my experience! Also, went during covid and on a Sunday so some things may be different depending on when you visit. So, right when you enter there is a parking lot which is free parking on Sundays. You can park there and take a shuttle bus up to the top right to the entrance of the top level of the basilica. Or, you can walk up, going up the stairs enjoying the view! We attended the mass at 11:30 AM on Sunday, because of covid there is only one entrance to the basilica for the mass. If you don’t want to attend the mass, you can enter through another entrance which had a huge line as they are only allowing a couple of people at a time. Once inside, you can access the gift shop, level 3 has the exhibits of St. Brother Andre, level 1 has the votive chapel with all the candles, the tomb of brother Andre and the crypt church! From the outside, there is like a terrace from which people can access the Garden of the stations of the cross. It’s also the perfect spot to watch the sunset! The views are just incredible. Also, must visit the little chapel beside the basilica, very beautiful. You can also drive up in your own car, they have a few parking spots at each level. Overall, I loved this place, the beauty of it all is that it attracts people of all religions and backgrounds - the power of St. Joseph! Definitely will be back.

Raúl

It is a huge church, beautiful, you have to walk to the left side to see the garden with the statues and the fountain of redemption, then also to its right side to see the Chapel of Brother Andre, then inside on sundays, there is a musical/show, free entrance at 15:30pm, a good experience, it is also an awesome place to work out, running up and down all the many stairs. Beautiful view of the city. Recommended.

Jason M

Very nice to visit. Hopefully the main parking isn’t full otherwise you’ll be making the walk up the hill! Note that the 6th floor (observatory) is closed on Sundays for mass (we didn’t know that). Check out the gardens and definitely the view from the lookout!

Elí MuGu

Beautiful and Modern Church, is too huge. Have electric stairs and interesting arquitecture. The history of the Oratory is very interesting, inside the church you can know a small museum.

AADSTTT

Today I went for the first time to this place, behind all the perfection of the architecture, I found something really interesting, a lesson that I will remember as a Catholic. I was walking inside the chapel with my wife with all the necessary respect, but a priest kick us out, telling us, if we are not going to attend the mass we need to leave, the mass was going to start in the next 45 minutes, meanwhile others where walking inside with no problem, why he kick us out? how he suddenly feel that he has the power to tell me that we are not invite to the house of God, there is a big lesson to learn here, because after that,, all the magnificence of the church just collapse front in of my eyes, then I think again and I ask to our creator to give me the knowledge to understand the situation. I think God is not just there, the devil live here as well and he is always finding a way to attack us, I know that priest is thinking about it, and for me is fine, I forgive him, because only God our biggest and only creator is the one who know what we have inside our hearts, I can get kick out from all the church in this planet but I would never kick God out of my heart. I leave this place as soon as he told me, my believe is not built in gold or in some expensive building. I went inside the chapel with my wife in the right side and I leave with my wife and with God in my left side.

fozia mahboub

It was an amazing experience... Very big and have a very great history..

Obed Matul

This place is HUGE!!!! We even got lost in it. It has 6 floors (more that are not accessible). It has a library, cafe, souvenir shop, museum and so much more. We were able to go outside to the balcony and have an amazing view of the area. It’s a MUST VISIT in Montreal

Sandra

It is such a beautiful church. I loved the architecture. They have 6 levels but some levels are not accessible. They also have a panoramic view of the city from the 3rd level. Currently they have some construction going on and getting a parking spot is difficult. They provide shuttle service every 10-15 minutes if parking is not available near the church. They also have a small cafe in case you want to grab a bite. They request for a $5 donation at the entrance except on Sundays. I visit this place every time I visit Montreal.

Antti Koskela

It's a fairly impressive building from the outside, but rather underwhelming from the inside. It's not very big, and not very accessible. I did like the feeling and decoration in the candle room (it probably has a better name, but for the life of me can't come up with it right now!) I'm sure it carries some significance to pilgrims, and they sure made a big deal out of that - although I find it interesting that someone would make their pilgrimage to this out of all places. Overall, an interesting piece of local culture, Montréal's modern history, and impressive to look at from outside.

Courtney Edwards

Bring a small snack and watch the sunset from the stairs. You will never forget it. Such a beautiful place.

Chris R

Actually never knew they had such a nice garden with statues. Was very impressed and nice place to visit in Montreal.

ManLi Q

Love this place, especially the Garden of the Way of the Cross and the water fountain at the back!

Dniro D

Amazing place to visit 10/10 recommend everyone checking out, Beautiful view Be aware currently there is construction being conducted as they are expanding the property. still open to the public

Liisa Shafer

Beautiful place to visit. Parking is only $5, but plan your visit early because the parking fills up fast. They also have a free shuttle that takes you up to the the entrance. Unless you walk or hike regularly take the shuttle because from the street level it is a long walk up to the Oratory with a very steep ascent. Make sure you plan at least 2 to 3 hours or more if you want to see everything, and take the map that us offered at several places to orient yourself as you can get turned around because the place is so large. We also walked the Stations of the Cross on a beautiful autumn day. The walk is up and behind the Oratory, and is spectacular along with the views of the city.

Nico Bock

Beautiful gardens and views from the balcony. Unfortunately the Oratory was closed on the day of my visit.

Isuru Vidanalage

A Gorgeous church in Montreal. Lots of people visit here to watch the sun set. I couldn't take stay longer though. Google maps shows a wrong route to enter into parking lot beind the church. Even the satellite map is not updated. They have closed that route. You need to find a route to the parking lot from in front of the church. In the evening time, it is really beautiful. Totally worth the visit and the wait for the sunset. Highly recommend place for first time visitors to Montreal.

Tinka Stiller

I was there in 2017. I find the oratorio very, very interesting. I rediscovered the beauty and uniqueness. But unfortunately the garden was, this time, a construction site. You cannot go outside from the cathedral, you would have to go to the plateau from outside. For handicapped people and wheelchair users currently. not suitable.

Lindsey Ross

Interesting spot- Worth a visit if you have the time. It's by donation and relatively self guided. We wandered around and walked through the exhibits. Lots of gift shops + opportunities to buy things from here.

John Medellin

I could stay forever, life is a journey of grace. The holy family had in st Joseph a king. St andre basset knew this all to well. My devotion to St Joseph has much fruit. Consider a true and total consecration.

Amreen Shafiuddin

the basilica is beautiful. super high elevation. lots of construction going on and closures too. super crowded during the weekend. historic and religious! super news of the garden. a walk uphill depending upon the parking you get.

Chirag Tanna

Definitely visit if you are in Montreal. You can see the city from right outside the church. There is enough parking available for most of the time

Patrick D

This basilica is just gorgeous! Situated at a higher elevation, the Saint Joseph’s Oratory stands out really well. The walk up can be a bit challenging for some but it’s manageable. Once your get up, the view was amazing. Due to Covid, they only have one entry point which goes to through the gift shop and when you’re inside, you’ll be fascinated with how beautiful the basilica is! The staff were very courteous and helpful throughout our visit.

Danny Otero

Loved this place! Came here on a Sunday and parking was free. The Oratory is up on a hill and although looks like a lot of stairs, it was easy to climb. My daughters loved it (they love buildings that look like castles). There was plenty parking and not that much people. We climbed up all the stairs and we could see almost all of Montreal! I highly recommend a visit here to really see Montreal!

Julian Lima Kuleshov

While visiting Montreal was offered to go see one of the biggest churches located on top of a mountain in (Montreal )Quebec. I personally never went in due to there was no service on that day and there was construction happening on sight. One thing for sure I had quite the cardio workout going up the stairs ????

Poonamkaur Makan

Hidden gem...must visit to sooth out your mind and eyes..highly recommended..no tickets no entry fee..shuttle picks you up from entrance and drop off as well..no cost at all

Muhammad Mohiuddin

A very grand church, with a lot of amazing pieces of art reflecting religious history of Christianity. We visited on Saturday and it was free to visit. It has a very big souvenirs shop with a very good collection of bibles and other religious books.

Alison Berger

It was beautiful. Some people were going up the middle stairs on their knees and praying as they went. I have never done that and I was unsure of the reason, but it might be beneficial to research this if this interests you. I sure there is a beautiful drive behind this and maybe even a specific prayer that is encouraged. I loved going up the stairs, admiring the landscape, and then being greeted by the warmth of the church. It was welcoming and you felt invited to stay and spend time in reflection and prayer if you wished. The architecture and art was slightly different than I had experienced before I found it refreshing to experience this churches character and uniqueness. The church itself and the prayer chapel is free to go in, but they do ask for donations and there museum does cost, but I am unsure how much. I am happy we went.

Nancy Benedicto

It's under construction right now .But it's still a nice visit .Very well organized .

Rodyna Zabbit

Wow! Totally unexpected to find all that is this amazing location! From the history, to the mix of architecture, to the spectacular views... An Amazingly and Beautiful place to visit! Even with the current construction and or renovations going on below, it is still great to visit! We are definitely looking forward to returning and seeing it after completion of the lower grounds.

Your Helpful Wendy

This place is Gorgeous and definitely a must !!! My sister drove all the way to the top of this mountain where this basilica is located. Such an impecable and peaceful place. We loved it and felt amazing, plus the architecture is so pretty. There’s no entrance fee and there are different floors. We didn’t have time to go to the museum but there’s one there too. At their gift shop you can find any type of great keepsakes and Catholic things like books, bibles, accessories, frames, and much more. The service here was perfect and the parking was free.

Sheromie Vittachi

My Mom loved being here. She was happy to go to mass. They had mass about 4 times a day. They have a credit card machine for the candles if you don’t have cash! Still have the crutches on display and there are 2 churches open. No entrance fee and they have an escalator ( and elevators) to got to the crypt. Also a big gift store.

John Z

Under repairing or construction in front square at this moment (October 2, 2021). But you can drive to the back of the church and get in from there. The church is pretty big and has elevator inside.

mouna Pothamsetty

Very beautiful and peaceful place, shuffle buses are available every 5-10 min.

Andres Lopez

a place in montreal you must visit, no matter if you are a believer or not! It is the largest church in Canada and has one of the largest domes in the world. André Bessette passed away in 1937 and his grave is in the oratory. The oratory also has a reliquary containing parts of the heart of Saint André. !! an incredible place

Arina Ivnitskaya

Very fascinating place! Stayed there for 2 hours exploring outside and inside.

Chester Diaz

A great oratory with St. Andre who was the healer saint of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. This is a prayer community for those who suffer COVID-19 and other diseases that will be healed by God through the intercession of St. Andre.

rahul tulsian

Very grand.. This place has a special vibe.. Must visit if you are in Montreal..

Gregory Swift

What an incredible place of worship! By far one of thee best, if not the best Cathedral I've ever been to. This staggering Cathedral is on par to St.Pauls in London. There is ample parking and there is many pews and areas in which to pray in peace too ????

Deeyosha

???? Very beautiful and well preserved chuch.

Betty Angwenyi

If in Montreal, here is one place to visit that is uncomplicated to access, open even during the pandemic, and where you will not fail to find peace. As St. Bro. André is quoted as saying, "I have rarely come across anyone who has come to the Oratory and who has left without feeling better" and as someone who goes there frequently, I have experienced the truth of it. Come and pray to St. Joseph and his son, brother André (our big brother), then see for yourself if you don't come away feeling better.

Michael Rachid

This is an impressive landmark of the beautiful city of Montreal. It's a huge construction, very well maintained and as a big bonus it brings you a great view of the city. Take your time to truly appreciate the architecture, the beauty and all the love that was put in the making of this place. Definitely a must go.

Simply Emie Vlogs

I love to visit here every year since 2007 up to the present. The garden area and outdoor concrete stairs are still under construction. Still beautiful to visit. Need to wear mask inside.

B, C

Really beautiful place! I have been going there since my childhood. My favourite place in the whole church is the basilica. I don’t know why but there’s something that draws me close to it.

Hosam Azara

Beautiful and large church overseeing the city, once before COVID-19 used to be packed with visitors and faithfuls from different countries...a picture is worth a thousand words...at least renovations are ongoing during this period of distancing/lockdown...looking forward to the end of both

Krishna Sudarshan

Not as stunning as the Notre-Dame Basilica but more imposing and plain. The proportions are gargantuan. Doesn't seem as welcoming either, sorry to say. But I make it a point to visit every time I'm in Montreal. Walking up the stairs is quite an exercise! I run into the locals often, there are many regulars from the area who visit this place.

Michael Cheung

Beautiful sanctuary! Fun fact: Tallest building in Montreal.

JOJO

There’s a construction is going on currently, so it looks like a bit of mess! People are required wearing masks go into the building, make sure you bring your mask along with you before visit! We went to garden next to the church and took a walk! Nice weather and nice sculptures!

Lieven M

This is a review of my very first visit to The Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal. The site is definitely breathtaking as one makes her/ his way up taking the stairs. The foregrounds might just disappoint a bit due to the ongoing construction, but as one marches on, she / he will start admiring the beauty of this treasure right here in the City. The architecture meets art! At the top of the stairs, bottom of the Oratory, the sight is just wonderful when overlooking the city. It’s definitely a must see location for families, lovers on a date, and photographers in search of new sights. I would recommend going early am on weekends to soak in its beauty and avoid crowds. There are few ways to get at the top, either by car, by free shuttle, or by taking the stairs ( worth the amount of energy spent and calories burned ). Depending on current Covid rules, the Oratory might be open to the public, or visiting the gift shop is also another great idea. L’un des trésors que nous offre la splendide ville de Montréal.

Caton L

Pros: this place is free, it has an amazing outdoor observatory when the light hits just right. Don't be fooled by the church itself - the surrounding gardens and sculptures are the real highlight: A maze that leads up to the Fountain of Redemption Cons: as it is a more modern church, it is quite plain and cold on the inside, not nearly as intricate as Notre Dame Basilica, but no one is expecting it to be either. There is also a LOT of walking and a lot of shortcuts are closed off due to COVID (?) As you leave don't forget to visit the original church: a cute teal coloured building opposite of the parking lot. Quite the upgrade!

Jian C

Great place to catch the sunset. Really interesting, architecturally. The outside of the basilica is completely different from the interior, not what I expected at all. The interior looks quite modern and contemporary. Originally only came to view the sunset over Montreal, but arrived early so ended up exploring the inside of the Oratory, which was interesting. It’s really spacious inside, much larger than it looks. There’s also an original chapel, which is very small but quaint and worth a peek, it’s a short 2mins walk from the main basilica.

Lux Erus

Lots of constructions outside, but there are indications to a shuttle that brings you nicely to the top (no idea when it starts and stops going though). Instructions to get to the terrace unclear as every door to get to it were locked and you have to ignore the signage of the building (you have to get out through the entrance and the you can walk to the terrace and enjoy the view). Giving 4 stars because it is free, the view is awesome, and the oratory looks great from the outside. Not particularly impressed by the inside, I feel like I've been in churches with more art and more details, but really not bad.

Tony Nguyen

The Saint Joseph's Oratory is presently in construction/renovation so not as pretty as usually. However the staff manage to keep the place available and functional to visitors and pilgrimages with extra parking attendants, expedient shuttle, Covid-19 safety checking staff, etc. Mass still available as usual and will be even more during holidays period. Most areas are open during construction. They are all clean and safe to visit and pray.

Kamlesh J

No visit to Montreal is complete without visiting Saint Joseph's Oratory. A National historic site of Canada.

Ismail khuda bukhsh

Beautiful basilica. rich in history. If you are in Montréal, you can visit this place just for the scenic views from the huge balcony. You will not be disappointed

Georges Fakhoury

Great place to visit. Historic, religious and breathtaking views and relics are found at the monastery.

muhammad hayat

Beautiful church/landmark to visit whilst site-seeing in Montreal.There is construction in the Parking Lot and Google Maps can be slightly confusing. Make sure you enter the parking lot from ground level and turn right to drive up to the main entrance for the church. There is a souvenirs shop and a small restaurant in the church. Beautiful and peaceful nonetheless.

Anonymous

I always have a great time going there. It's huge and the view over the city is beautiful. I like going there when I want to be alone and contemplate on my life. I can't wait for the on-site renovation to be over so I can roam around freely, once again.

Art IL P

It is a must see! Very remarkable sight ????

Fengatron

Great church for visitors, admission is free. Sits on top of a hill offering a good view of the neighbourhood. Currently undergoing construction around the lower level entrance are which do affect picture taking opportunities. There is also a small garden/park next to the church with some nice greenery, statues and a fountain.

KP

Amazing views from the top. The front entrance to the oratory is under construction so it's a bit shabby. Once it's done it's going to be spectacular. The dome is magnificent and visible from all corners of Montreal island. One of the finest architectural landmark.

Jean-guilhem Tovar

We spent nearly three hours on site. Everyone was kind but, along with hundreds of other wanderers, we were unable to get access to anything but the stores and the coffee shop (the whole merchants of the temple experience). Every time we asked how to get to the basilica while inside the premises -as we faced fenced off escalators and stairs-, we were told to use the outside access and be at the door at a precise hour. We were always at the outside door at the exact time, at 1:30, then at 2:30. Both times the door indeed opened but only for the person on the other side to tell the 50+ people waiting that they couldn’t get in this way but had to go “inside”. Yet again, inside we were told to… we’ll go outside. We stayed around longer than most but eventually proceeded back to the shuttle having had the chance to visit… nothing but stores and saint André’s grave. Just to make sure, before boarding the shuttle we asked the kind lady by the entrance. As expected she was astonished I would ask her again… she told us the only way to get to the basilica was to go outside, “there is no access to the basilica if you go inside” she clarified. I explained that the people at the door outside had told us the only way was inside “82 seconds ago”. She recognizes she didn’t know why and apologized.

k tel

The exterior is very impressive- I found the interior to be disappointing somewhat sterile and bland. As is the case in most places in Montreal the signage left a lot to be desired. I'm not sure when the construction is due to be finished, from information online it looks like it'll be another 2-3 years . There were many areas that are inaccessible and I was disappointed to learn that the gardens are closed until next May.

Marc D

The interior fails to hold what the outside appears to promise. The grand majestic building draws you in but the inside of the Oratory has zero flair. It is way too modern, way too commercialized. Gift shops, escalators, elevators and Food concessions are an odd addition to a place of worship.

Natalia Z

Absolutely stunning! It's definitely a place to see whether you are religious or not. The architecture is beautiful and the peace you'll feel as you walk through is indescribable. Remember to go in and see the crypt.

priya vaswani

Amazing architecture with beautiful glass windows. The church had ample seating and restrooms for the public. There is also a shuttle bus to take you to and from the parking lot.

Sneha Jondhale

Amazing vibe and beautiful place to visit. Full view of Montréal from the top could be seen. We visited at sunset and the view was splendid.

Parvez Fattah

Large church and beautiful architecture. Lookout from the balconies is a great place to view Montreal and spend some time. Place where 10,000 candles are burning. Free entrance and easy movement via escalators. Lift available.

Angelo Baleta

St. Brother Andre inspired a lot of people by doing God's work. Wonderful!

Kate Fernandes

Beautiful, modern yet old As a big St Joseph fan, I had to stop here. The church is quiet and big and calming. Love the feel. The terrace outside is breathtaking, would highly recommend a visit on a no foggy day. It's quite a climb, recommend taking the free shuttle bus at the beginning instead of walking to the top.

Pranali Desai

There is a shuttle bus running every 5-7 mins between the oratory and parking. If you choose to walk, it is an uphill walk that will take you about 20-25 mins depending on your pace. Vaccine passport and photo id required on entrance. You can see the crypt church it is beautiful and quite. Entry is free. You can also do a small donation and lit a candle. You can take a look at the city from the top of the terrace. Once you go to the terrace and exit the building, you cannot get back into the church so make sure to see the church beforehand or you will have to enter again from the main entrance.

Suchandra Mitra

A must visit if you are in Montreal. They have a free shuttle bus service to go all the way to the top and also for coming back. There is a food court inside the oratory. The view of the city from the deck is amazing.

winnifred cumberbatch

You can enter from queen Mary road, and take the shuttle bus up to the top. There is also an option for all day parking, not too expensive. Lots of construction going on but, it's all for us to have a greater experience in the future, so beautiful and peaceful.

sonny dinh

The church is located at the top of the hill so the view is scenic. There is a garden outside that display the stations of the cross on a sloping and winding path. There is also a small chapel in walking distance of the church. The museum is located in the lower level of the church and charge a small fee to enter. The architecture is more of a modern style than the Basilica of Montreal. You can spend a good amount of time here to take in everything.

J.Z C

Beautiful & wonderful place to visit when in Montreal. So much to see & enjoy. Gardens are very tranquil & well cared for. Souvenirs are very reasonably priced here as well. No admission charge but a $2 donation at the entrance is recommended. Very moving experience in the chapel where the canes of all the people who climbed the stairs are located.

eric williams

Beautiful views! For all the fitness freaks, due to construction you cannot walk from Queen Mary up the middle, those steps are being replaced. Start from Frere Andre, walk up and around the construction, and find a dark, curved staircase. Or you walk beside the cars on Kingston Road , which takes you right to the parking lot & landing viewpoint, very steep & good workout