Old Montreal... The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel 3

Beneath the floor of the chapel lies an archaeological site! In 1996, archaeologists discovered the original foundations of Marguerite Bourgeoys' little chapel... foundations from 325 years ago. Furthermore, this site has revealed signs of even earlier encampments by Native Peoples and artifacts dating back more than 2400 years.

The guided tour of the excavation site was fun. We were led 2 floors down into the basement of the chapel and into a vaulted crypt. From this point, the tour continued, passing through a narrow doorway that led to the dig site itself. Thank goodness the duration of the tour was only 20 minutes because it was very hot down there. As crypt tours go, this was a well-sized group with an informative and entertaining guide.


Note: Unfortunately, there is a "no photos" policy at the dig site. But, I managed to take these two so-so photographs off a slideshow that was being presented in the reception area.

Old Montreal... The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel 2

The vaulted ceiling mural was painted by François-Édouard Meloche (a local painter-decorator) in 1886. It illustrates eight scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. This magnificent artwork, which had been hidden by a painted canvas that was pasted to the ceiling in the early 20th century, was only discovered in 1994. The three altars of the sanctuary were made of Italian marble at the beginning of the 20th century.

Early Casavant organ, 1910.

In the 18th century, and especially at the beginning of the 19th century, the port of Montreal was bustling. Sailors often came to pray on the eve of an ocean crossing, and the chapel began to be called The Sailors’ Church. These are miniature boats, votive offerings given for a favour sought or in thanks for one granted through the intercession of Mary

Stained glass windows illustrating the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary... by D.-Adolphe Beaulieu, 1910.




Links of Interest: Casavant Brothers Significant Casavant Organs Around the World

Old Montreal... The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. Marguerite Bourgeoys, the first teacher in the colony of Ville-Marie (Montreal) and the founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame rallied all the colonists to build this chapel. Work on the original structure in wood began in 1655. Through the years, it has been altered many times and additions have been made. In 1754, the chapel was completely destroyed in a fire. The present day chapel was built in 1771, over its original foundations. Also, it is often referred to as the "Sailor's Church". In the 19th century, sailors who arrived in the "Old Port" would make offerings to the Virgin in gratitude for safe sea voyages.

This is the rear of the chapel which overlooks the harbour. Here, the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours spreads her arms to the St. Lawrence River and blesses sailors with her protection.

Old Montreal - The Balloon Man

Yesterday was the perfect day for a casual stroll in "Le Vieux Port"... The Old Port of Montreal. The Balloon Man, a regular sighting in this quarter, was in his usual jovial and playful mood. As he was crossing the cobblestone road, he turned and made grimaces at me. Caught him here with a grin and a mischievous look in his eyes! ..... Sorry about the feet !


Links of Interest: Animated Tour of Old Montreal