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Rectangular in shape, contrary to the norms of the day, Notre-Dame features arcades with cross-ribbed vaulting.

In 1929 Olivier Maurault, a priest and author, conceived the present-day windows, which depict both early religious events as well as scenes from the everyday lives of people of Vieux-Montréal.

It is possible to hear the amazing chimes of Le Gros Bourdon, the largest bell in North America, some 30 km (18 miles) outside Montréal.

Joseph Casavant was a Québécois blacksmith and the first significant builder of pipe organs in Canada. He built the famous Notre-Dame organ for the basilica in 1891.

In 1880 local artists Henri Bouriché and Louis-Philippe Hébert created complementary wood sculptings backed by azure for this spectacular altarpiece.

Architect Victor Bourgeau’s first known work is the 1844 spiral staircase pulpit, which some say resembles the tiers of a wedding cake. Set in the middle of the church, it allows the congregation to hear sermons without amplification.

Built in 1888, this gem hides behind the main altar. Countless marriage ceremonies take place here, inspiring the moniker of “The Wedding Chapel.”

Sculptor Charles Daudelin’s bronze reredos , which hangs behind the Chapelle du Sacré-Coeur, is among his most dramatic works.

Many famous couples have tied the knot in Notre-Dame but the most mentioned celebrity wedding is that of recording star Céline Dion in 1994 (see Céline Dion).

Built in 1685 by the Sulpician order, this structure beside the basilica is the oldest building in Montréal (see Séminaire St-Sulpice).