Notre-Dame de Montréal

Profile

Overlooking Place d'Armes in the very center of Old Montreal, this impressive church was designed by James O'Donnell, an Irish-American Protestant from New York (who did, however, converted to catholicism before his death).

History

The construction of this cathedral began in 1824 and took many decades to complete. The architect, James O'Donnell, a New York Protestant of Irish origin, was inspired by Gothic architecture which he wanted to bring to North America.

The church was inaugurated in 1829, but the structure was only completed after O'Donnell's death: the first tower was completed in 1841, the second - in 1843 and the interior - only in the 1880's.

Information last updated: 10/Oct/2008