DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City : Basilique Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré

Basilique Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré

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The oldest pilgrimage site in North America began life in 1658 as a shrine to this patron saint of Québec and was established as a basilica in 1887. The present church, started in 1923 but only completed in 1963, has a striking interior with sumptuous decoration, including impressive window archways. Hundreds of crutches, canes and medical aids can be seen stacked in pyramids beside the medieval-style entrance, testimony to pilgrim prayer and the healing powers associated with Sainte Anne de Beaupré. Stunning religious statues frame the entrance and line the luxurious gardens, including a Way of the Cross.
Atelier Paré is two minutes from the shrine on avenue Royale and provides an opportunity to purchase unusual souvenirs.

Top 10 Features

1. Medieval Architecture

A five-nave towered church blends imposing Gothic architecture with Romanesque details previously unseen in Québec Province.
2. Stained-Glass Windows

2. Stained-Glass Windows

The dazzling 240 stained-glass windows depict moments in the life of Ste Anne. The centerpiece is a huge oval window flooding light into the nave.
3. Candlelight Processions

It is common to witness evening candlelight processions honoring saints and religious holidays; those on July 25 and 26 celebrate Ste Anne.
4. Way of the Cross Bronzes

4. Way of the Cross Bronzes

Life-size bronze statues line the hillside trail beside the basilica. Honouring saints and Apostles, these artworks infuse a Renaissance feeling to the grounds.
5. Memorial Chapel

5. Memorial Chapel

This votive chapel, built in 1878 to commemorate the original church on this site, contains religious memorabilia, rare documents and artifacts.
6. St Augustin

Thomas Baillairgé continued his family’s legacy as a religious decorator by carving pieces for the basilica, including a statue of St Augustin.
7. Scala Santa

7. Scala Santa

A wonderful little chapel constructed in 1891 includes a remarkable stairway venerating the one Jesus ascended to face condemnation by Pontius Pilate.
8. Musée de Sainte-Anne

A separate building next to the main shrine features two floors of religious exhibitions focusing on Ste Anne and the 300 years of pilgrimage to this holy site.
9. Cyclorama de Jérusalem

9. Cyclorama de Jérusalem

The world’s largest panoramic painting was created in Munich between 1878–82. It was shipped in sections in 1895 and still transfixes visitors with its overview of Jerusalem.
10. Atelier Paré

This woodcarver’s workshop is worth a visit to see the artisan at work creating pieces for the basilica.

Practical Information

Restaurant L’ainé is located two minutes from the basilica and serves delicious home-cooked meals at affordable prices. Call ahead for information regarding any special celebrations or festivities, since the crowds can be an impediment to enjoying the site. 10018 ave Royale, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré (418) 827 3781 www.ssadb.qc.ca Open daily Free Musée de Sainte- Anne Open Jul–Aug: daily Adm