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In honour of Notre-Dame de Paris’ reopening this week-end, I propose a few reels. They are in French but the visuals speak for themselves. It is an extradordinary rebirth which had me in tears.


Du feu, aux travaux, à l’appréciation



The restoration of Notre Dame de Paris is a worldwide celebration for several reasons:

Historical Significance: Notre Dame is an iconic symbol of French heritage and Gothic architecture. Its restoration marks the preservation of a significant piece of world history.

Global Support: The fire in April 2019 shocked people worldwide, and the subsequent restoration efforts received donations and support from across the globe. This international involvement has fostered a sense of global community and shared responsibility.

Cultural Impact: Notre Dame is not just a religious site but also a cultural landmark. Its reopening signifies the revival of a place that has hosted countless historical events, art, and music over centuries.

Symbol of Resilience: The successful restoration, completed in just five years, is a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. It shows that even after devastating events, communities can come together to rebuild and restore what was lost.

Unity and Hope: The reopening ceremony brought together world leaders, religious figures, and citizens, symbolizing unity and hope. It’s a reminder that despite differences, people can unite for a common cause.

The celebration is not just about the physical rebuilding of the cathedral but also about the restoration of hope, faith, and cultural pride on a global scale.

As we are in Paris, France the videos are in French – but I dont think it will take anything away from the appreciation


L’histoire







Un Poème




Le feu




Le plomb fondu




L’échafaudage




La Rosace




Une cloche




l’Orgue




Dépose d’un cintre arc boutant




Restauration et retour de lustres




Repose des vouivres




Galerie des chimères




La Stryge




Les vitraux




L’intérieur




À la porte




Les portes ouvrent




Les pompiers




La procession




La bénédiction de l’autel




Pharel Williams




Spectacle de son et lumière




Bach

Notre-Dame-de-Fourvière Cathedral
Mont-Laurier, 1903


The Gothic Revival architectural movement in Québec isn’t just a stylistic chapter in the province’s history—it’s a narrative told through the spires, arches, and intricate details of its iconic structures. Here, we delve into some of the most remarkable examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Québec, highlighting their unique features and cultural significance.

Urban Marvels of Gothic Revival

In Québec’s urban centers, Gothic Revival buildings stand as monumental testaments to the grandeur of this architectural style.

• Notre-Dame Basilica, Montreal
  One of the most famous examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Québec, the Notre-Dame Basilica boasts a breathtaking interior with vibrant stained glass panels that depict the religious history of Montréal. Its towering twin spires and ornate carvings reflect the European Gothic traditions while showcasing local craftsmanship.
• Saint Patrick’s Basilica, Québec City
  This basilica combines English Gothic influences with French-Canadian aesthetics, featuring ribbed vaults, intricate tracery, and a beautifully carved wooden interior. Saint Patrick’s is also noted for its acoustic properties, making it a popular venue for concerts and events.

Rural Charm in Gothic Revival

Rural Québec’s interpretations of the Gothic Revival style provide a fascinating contrast to their urban counterparts, emphasizing simplicity and the use of local materials.

• Saint-Michel de Bellechasse Church
  Located in a picturesque village, this wooden church exemplifies how Gothic Revival design was adapted for rural communities. Its pointed arches and steep rooflines are more subdued but maintain the style’s spiritual essence.
• Saint-Thomas Church, Memphrémagog This wooden church is a striking example of Gothic Revival adapted to a rural setting. Its tall windows and intricate interior woodwork showcase the skill of local craftsmen, while its modest size reflects the community it serves.

Institutional and Public Buildings Beyond religious structures, Gothic Revival also found expression in civic architecture, adding a sense of gravitas to Québec’s public buildings.

• Redpath Hall, McGill University
  This elegant building, constructed in 1893, incorporates Gothic Revival elements such as pointed windows and decorative stonework. It remains a hub of academic and cultural activities, reflecting the versatility of the style.
• Le Château Frontenac, Québec City While predominantly a Châteauesque-style building, Gothic Revival elements are evident in its steeply pitched roofs and decorative spires. It illustrates how Gothic features were blended into other architectural styles in Québec.

Enduring Cultural Significance

Gothic Revival structures across Québec are more than architectural masterpieces; they are cultural landmarks that embody the province’s historical evolution. Whether it’s the grand cathedrals of Montréal or the modest wooden churches of rural communities, these buildings reflect the diverse influences and resourcefulness that define Québec’s identity.

By preserving and celebrating these structures, we honor not only the architectural achievements of the past but also the spiritual and cultural narratives they continue to represent. The Gothic Revival in Québec is a story of adaptation, resilience, and artistic triumph—a legacy as enduring as the structures themselves.

This concludes our exploration of Gothic Revival architecture in Québec, a style that continues to inspire awe and admiration for its timeless beauty and cultural significance.


Basilica Cathedral of St. Celicia
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, 1935




Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Irlande, 1904




L’Enfant-Jésus Church
Vallée-Jonction, 1898




McGeer Hall, Bishops University
Sherbrooke, 1898




Sacré-Coeur Chruch
Saguenay, 1905




Sainte-Agnès Church
Lac-Mégantic, 1913




Saint-Édouard Church
Saguenay, 1928




Sainte-Famille Church
Granby, 1931




Sainte-Julienne Church
Sainte-Julienne, 1916




Saint-François-de-Sales Church
Gatineau, 1903




Saint-Isidore Church
Lac des Aigles, 1933




Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur Church
Causapscal, 1912




Saint-Jérôme Church
Métabetchouan-Lac-à-la-Croix, 1926




Saint-Laurent Church
Matapédia, 1903




Saint-Louis-de-France Church
East Angus, 1923




Saint-Michel Basilica-Cathedral
Sherbrooke, 1959




Saint-Pierre-du-Lac-de-Val-Brilland Church
Val-Brilland, 1916




Saint-Prime Church
Saint-Prime, 1909




Saint-Zénon Church
Piopolis, 1909




Séminaire de Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke, 1898




St. George Anglican Church
Granby, 1908




St. Paul Anglican Church
Dudswell, 1899

Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Church
Richelieu, 1868


Part 2: Gothic Revival in Québec – Influences, Evolution, and Legacy

Influences on Québec’s Gothic Revival

The Gothic Revival movement in Québec was shaped by a blend of British, French, and local traditions. British influence, particularly from Anglican communities, brought the style into Québec through ecclesiastical designs inspired by English Gothic traditions. French-Canadian Catholicism, however, played an equally significant role, infusing the style with a sense of grandeur and spiritual devotion unique to Québec.

Architectural manuals and pattern books from Europe and the United States also made their way to Québec, offering inspiration for the distinctive pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and buttresses seen in both large urban cathedrals and modest rural churches. The adaptation of these elements in Quebec reflected not only aesthetic preferences but also practical considerations, such as the availability of local materials and the skills of craftsmen.

Evolution of the Style in Québec

As the Gothic Revival gained popularity, its expression in Québec evolved to suit local needs and environments. Early examples in urban centers often adhered closely to European Gothic principles, featuring grand stone façades, elaborate stained glass, and soaring spires that dominated city skylines.

In rural areas, the style took on a more modest and functional form. Wooden Gothic Revival churches became prevalent, reflecting the craftsmanship of local builders who skillfully translated stone motifs into timber. These simpler structures often relied on verticality and symmetry to evoke the grandeur of their urban counterparts while retaining a uniquely Canadian charm.

The Legacy of Gothic Revival

The Gothic Revival’s impact on Québec’s architectural landscape endures to this day, shaping the province’s identity. Many Gothic Revival churches and public buildings remain in active use, serving as places of worship, cultural landmarks, or community centers. Their intricate designs and historical significance make them popular destinations for visitors and scholars alike.

The style also influenced the broader architectural vocabulary of the province, leaving a lasting imprint on later designs. Elements such as pointed arches, steeply pitched roofs, and decorative tracery continued to appear in subsequent architectural movements, blending tradition with innovation.

Preserving Québec’s Gothic Heritage

Efforts to preserve Gothic Revival structures in Québec are essential to maintaining the province’s cultural and historical fabric. Restoration projects on iconic buildings like Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal and smaller rural churches ensure that these architectural treasures are not only preserved but also celebrated for future generations.

The Gothic Revival in Quebec is more than a stylistic movement; it is a testament to the province’s rich cultural tapestry, where European influences and local ingenuity came together to create a timeless architectural legacy.


Bishop Stewart of the Holy Trinity Church
Frelighsburg, 1884




Chalmers-Emanuel Presbyterian Church
Lingwick, 1890




Christ Church Chapel Canterbury
Scotstown, 1896




Saint-Austin Church
Austin, 1865




Saint-Blaise Church
Saint-Blaise-sur-Richelieu, 1883




Saint-Denis-de-la-Bouteillerie Church
Saint-Denis-de-la-Bouteillerie, 1887




Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade Church
Saint-Anne-de-la-Pérade, 1869




Saint-François d’Assise Church
Frelighsburg, 1885




Saint-François-Xavier Church
Batiscan, 1866




Saint-Henri Church
Sant-Henri, 1879



Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church
Roxton Falls, 1877




Saint-Maurice Church
SaintMaurice, 1864




Saint-Narcisse Church
Saint-Narcisse, 1873




Saint-Patrice Church
Magog, 1894




Saint-Pierre-de-la Vernière Church
Magdelen Islands, 1881




Saint-Venant-de-Paquette Church
Saint-Venant-de-Paquette, 1877




St. Andrew’s Church
Scotstown, 1882




St Barnabas Anglican Church
Lac-Mégantic, 1891




Ste-Anne-des-Ondes Chapel
Riviere du Loup, 1896




St Luke Anglican Church Magog, 1871


St. Luke Church
Waterloo, 1970




St. Paul United Church
Ormstown, 1869

Manoir Papineau Gardener’s House
Montebello, 1855


The Gothic Revival architectural style flourished in the 19th century and left a distinctive mark across Quebec, particularly in churches, public buildings, and even private residences. This style emphasized pointed arches, intricate woodwork, steeply pitched roofs, and tall windows, often with stained glass, to evoke the grandeur and spiritual connection of medieval Gothic architecture.

Gothic Revival architecture in Quebec features pointed arches, steep roofs, and intricate details, blending urban grandeur and rural charm. Notable examples include cathedrals like Rimouski’s Saint-Germain, with elegant spires and tracery, and smaller churches such as Montebello’s chapels, which showcase wooden craftsmanship. Many rural churches, like Saint-Jean-Baptiste in L’Isle-Verte or Saint-Pierre in Sorel-Tracy, emphasize verticality and stained glass, reflecting the style’s spiritual ambiance. Anglican churches, such as St. James in Trois-Rivières and St. George’s in Drummondville, combine steep roofs and wood interiors, illustrating local adaptations. Gothic Revival enriches Quebec’s architectural landscape, from grand façades to quiet chapels.

Themes Across Locations

In Quebec, the Gothic Revival adapted to both urban and rural contexts:

• Urban Areas: Larger churches and public buildings feature elaborate stone construction and intricate stained glass.
• Rural Areas: Wooden interpretations of Gothic Revival are common, with simpler forms and local craftsmanship.

Quebec’s Gothic Revival architecture reflects the influence of both British and French traditions, underscoring its unique historical and cultural identity.

Sainte-Émilie Church
Leclercville, 1863




Saint-Germain Cathedral
Rimouski, 1859




Saint-Nom-de-Marie Church
Sainte Marie, 1859




Assumption Cathedral
Trois-Rivieres, 1858




La-Décollarion-de-Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church
L’isle erte, 1855




Papineau Memorial Chapel
Montebello, 1855




Saint-Patrice Church
Rivière-du-Loup, 1855




Saint-Alexandre Church
Saint-Alexandre, 1853




Saint-Roch Church
Saint-Roch-des-Aulnaies, 1853




St-Paul Anglican Church
Dubswell, 1853




Messiah Anglican Church
Sainte-Anne de Sabrevois, 1848




Saint-Charles Borromée Church
Deschambault Grondines, 1842




Anglican Church St Bartholomewès
Riviere du loup, 1841




Saint-Hilaire Church
Mont-Saint-Hilaire, 1837




Saint-Mungo Church Brownburg-Chatham, 1836


St-George’s Church
Drummondville, 1833




St-James Anglican Church
Gatineau, 1824




Christ Church Sant-André
Dargenteil, 1821




Christ Church
Sorel-Tracy, 1784

Westmount Park Church
1929

Beyond the Icons

In Part 1, we explored the key features and most iconic examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Montreal, including landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica and Christ Church Cathedral. For Part 2, we delve deeper into the less-celebrated but equally fascinating structures, exploring how Gothic Revival left its mark on the city’s neighborhoods, institutions, and hidden gems.

Gothic Revival in Everyday Spaces

While the grand churches and public buildings often take the spotlight, Gothic Revival’s influence extends to smaller churches, educational institutions, and even civic structures. These buildings exemplify how the style permeated Montreal’s architectural DNA in the 19th century, touching every facet of urban life.

Lesser-Known Gothic Revival Gems in Montreal

1. St. Jude’s Anglican Church

Tucked away in Montreal’s South-West district, St. Jude’s is a modest yet charming example of Gothic Revival architecture. Built in the late 19th century, it features pointed arch windows and a steeply pitched roof, embodying the romantic simplicity of the style.

Interesting Detail: Though smaller in scale, St. Jude’s interior showcases finely crafted wood paneling and modest stained-glass windows that reflect its community-centric focus.

2. Villa Maria School

Originally constructed as a convent in 1854, Villa Maria School showcases Gothic Revival’s influence on institutional architecture. The imposing structure features pointed arches, decorative stonework, and steep roofs reminiscent of medieval abbeys.

Why It’s Noteworthy: This building demonstrates how Gothic Revival was adapted for educational spaces, blending grandeur with functionality.

3. Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes Chapel

This lesser-known chapel on St. Catherine Street stands out with its Gothic Revival-inspired façade, though its interior blends styles from different periods. The tall spires and pointed arches create an ethereal presence in the bustling downtown area.

Unique Feature: A mix of Gothic Revival with Art Nouveau details, making it a rare hybrid.

4. St. Stephen’s Anglican Church

Located in the neighborhood of Lachine, St. Stephen’s is another hidden treasure of Gothic Revival design. Built in 1878, it features buttresses and intricate stone tracery, lending it an old-world charm that contrasts with its suburban surroundings.

Fun Fact: The church has been a centerpiece for Lachine’s community life for over 140 years.

5. Grey Nuns Convent

While the Motherhouse of the Grey Nuns is often discussed, smaller associated buildings around Montreal also exhibit Gothic Revival features. These understated structures, with their lancet windows and carved detailing, reflect the architectural consistency of the era’s religious institutions.

Architectural Variations in Montreal

Gothic Revival in Montreal wasn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. While major buildings adhered to traditional European Gothic principles, smaller or less prominent structures often featured adaptations to suit local needs and budgets:

Simplified Gothic Elements: In neighborhood churches and schools, Gothic features like pointed arches and steep gables were used without the ornate embellishments of larger landmarks. Hybrid Styles: Many buildings combined Gothic Revival with Romanesque or Victorian styles, creating unique architectural hybrids. Preservation of the Uncelebrated While iconic Gothic Revival buildings like Notre-Dame Basilica are meticulously preserved, many smaller structures face challenges due to limited resources or declining use. Efforts by local heritage organizations have been crucial in raising awareness about the importance of these architectural treasures. Community Advocacy: Groups in neighborhoods like Mile End and Lachine have successfully lobbied for restoration projects, ensuring these historic buildings remain a part of Montreal’s cultural fabric.

A Broader Legacy

Montreal’s Gothic Revival architecture extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. It speaks to the city’s religious, educational, and cultural evolution, reflecting the aspirations and values of its builders. From grand basilicas to neighborhood chapels, these structures tell a story of a city rooted in tradition while embracing growth and diversity.


Saint Edouard Church
1909




Saint Francois de Sales Church
1851




Saint Jacques Cathedral
1860




Saint Joachim de Pointe Claire Church
1885




Saint Joseph Church
1861




Saint Laurent Church
1837




Saint Sauveur Church
1865




Saint Viateur d’Outremount Church
1911




St Georges Anglican Church
1870




St James United Church
1889




St Jax Montreal
1864




St John’s United Church
1896




St Matthias Church
1912




St Patrick’s Basilica
1847




Trafalgar Lodge
1848




Union United Church
1907




Victoria Hall
1925




Westmount City Hall
1922




Wilson Chambers Building
1869

Notre Dame de Montreal Basilica
1829


Gothic Revival architecture made a significant impact on Montreal’s urban landscape in the 19th century, reflecting the city’s European influence and religious heritage. This architectural style, rooted in medieval Gothic forms, became prominent in Montreal as it did across Canada, driven by the Romantic movement’s nostalgia for the past and the desire to convey grandeur, spirituality, and civic pride.

Key Features of Gothic Revival Architecture in Montreal

Montreal’s Gothic Revival buildings are characterized by:

• Pointed Arches: Seen in doorways, windows, and structural vaulting, giving the architecture a dramatic, upward reach.
• Ribbed Vaults: Mimicking medieval cathedral styles, adding structural strength and decorative patterning.
• Ornate Spires and Towers: Tall spires give a vertical emphasis, often embellished with intricate carvings.
• Buttresses: Often flying buttresses, which provided support and enhanced the overall majestic appearance.
• Detailed Stonework: Elaborate facades adorned with tracery, finials, and other ornamental details, often inspired by European Gothic cathedrals.

Iconic Gothic Revival Buildings in Montreal

Several buildings in Montreal embody Gothic Revival architecture, most notably churches but also some civic buildings and private structures:

1. Notre-Dame Basilica: One of Montreal’s most iconic landmarks, this basilica in Old Montreal is a classic example of Gothic Revival. Designed by architect James O’Donnell, it was completed in 1829. Its impressive facade, twin towers, and elaborate interior with stained glass windows depicting scenes from Montreal’s religious history make it a must-see.
2. St. James the Apostle Anglican Church: Completed in 1864, this church features prominent pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and intricate stained glass, embodying classic Gothic Revival elements.
3. Christ Church Cathedral: Another significant Gothic Revival structure, Christ Church Cathedral is unique for being built in a neo-Gothic style with a distinctly English Gothic influence. Constructed in 1859, it has a beautiful stone facade, spire, and vaulted ceilings. Interestingly, it now sits atop Montreal’s Promenades Cathédrale underground mall.
4. Saint Patrick’s Basilica: Built in 1847, Saint Patrick’s Basilica is known for its stunning stained-glass windows, ornate interior, and vibrant colors. It was designed to serve Montreal’s Irish community and stands as a testament to Montreal’s Irish Catholic heritage.
5. The Redpath Museum: Although not purely Gothic Revival, this building incorporates elements of the style. Located on the McGill University campus, the museum features pointed arches and decorative stonework, reflecting the architectural tastes of the era.

Historical Significance

Gothic Revival in Montreal was part of a broader movement across Canada, influenced by British and European trends. It was especially favored for ecclesiastical buildings, as the style was associated with religious heritage, spirituality, and continuity with the past. Montreal’s churches and public buildings became physical symbols of the city’s multicultural, deeply religious communities.

Preservation and Modern Legacy

Today, these buildings remain some of Montreal’s most beloved heritage sites, cherished for their architectural beauty and historical importance. Efforts to preserve Gothic Revival architecture in Montreal have been largely successful, with many of these structures meticulously maintained or restored.
Montreal’s Gothic Revival buildings continue to draw tourists and architecture enthusiasts, showcasing the city’s historical layers and deep-rooted architectural diversity.


Ascension of our Lord Church
1928




Bibliotheque Mordecai Richler
1905




Black Watch Armoury
1906




Cegep de Saint Laurent
1847




Christ Church Cathedral
1859




Church of Saint Pierre Apotre
1853




Church of St-Andrew and St-Paul
1932




Church of St-John the Evangelist
1878




Cathedral of Saint Antoine de Padoue
1911




College Notre Dame du Sacre Coeur
1869




Duggan House Braehead
1861




Frederick Thomas Judah House Villa Rosa
1875




Le Regiment de Maisonneuve
1933




Loyola College
1916




Martlet House
1928




McGill University Institute of Islamic Studies
1871




McGill University Faculty of Religious Studies
1912




Montreal Diocesan Theological College
1896




Mountainside United Church
1914




Mount Royal Cemetery Gate




Musee des Metiers d’art du Quebec
1867




Saint Alphonse Byouville Church
1931

St Michael’s Basilica
Miramichi, 1921


Having started our exploration of Gothic Revival architecture in Ottawa, Toronto, and Ontario, we then made our way into the Altantic provinces: Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia. Today we conclude our virtual exploration of the Altantic provinces with New Brunswick before making our way to Quebec then the Western provinces.

Gothic Revival architecture in New Brunswick, like elsewhere in Canada, became popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, around the 1830s to 1870s. This style drew from medieval European architecture, embracing ornate details, pointed arches, and a sense of verticality. The Gothic Revival style’s dramatic and romantic elements reflected a shift toward idealism and a fascination with history, especially in religious and public buildings.

Key features of Gothic Revival architecture in New Brunswick include:

1. Pointed Arches and Windows: Pointed, lancet-shaped windows and arches are hallmarks of this style. Churches, in particular, feature large stained-glass windows with intricate tracery, which became a defining element in the province.


2. Steeply Pitched Roofs and Tall Spires: Gothic Revival buildings often have steep roofs and spires or pinnacles that draw the eye upward, giving a sense of grandeur and elevation. This is particularly prominent in church architecture, where tall steeples make a dramatic statement against the landscape.


3. Buttresses and Decorative Facades: Many buildings include decorative or structural buttresses to emphasize stability and ornamentation, even if not strictly necessary. In New Brunswick, you can find examples of this in stone churches and civic buildings.


4. Ornamentation and Finials: Gothic Revival architecture often includes elaborate finials, carved stonework, and other decorative details, drawing from medieval Gothic cathedrals. Even smaller residences and public buildings may include Gothic details like arched windows and wooden trim (known as “gingerbread”) around doors and roofs.


5. Wood and Stone Construction: While the style originally used stone, New Brunswick builders frequently adapted Gothic Revival to the local timber resources, creating “Carpenter Gothic” homes and churches. This wooden variant retains the pointed arches, intricate woodwork, and decorative flair but is adapted to the timber frame and clapboard siding commonly found in the region.

Prominent examples of Gothic Revival architecture in New Brunswick are often seen in the province’s churches, such as Christ Church Cathedral in Fredericton. This historic church, completed in 1853, is one of the most notable Gothic Revival structures in Canada, with all the key elements—pointed arches, a steep roof, buttresses, and detailed stained glass. There are also Gothic-inspired civic buildings and private homes across New Brunswick, particularly in cities like Saint John and Fredericton, where the architecture reflects the Victorian fascination with medieval aesthetics and the picturesque movement.


Notre Dame de Lourdes Church
Notre Dame de Lourdes Parish, 1910




Alcorn Manor
Moncton, 1908




St Bernard’s Catholic Church
Moncton, 1891




Sacred Heart Cathedral
Bathurst, 1886




Sainte Therese Davila Church
Robertville, 1884




Anglican Church
Saint John, 1880




Saint Thomas de Memramcook Church
Memramcook, 1855




Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Saint John, 1853




Christ Church Cathedral
Frederickton, 1853




St John’s Anglican Church
Saint-John, 1826




Trinity Church
Kingston Parish, 1789