L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and national shrine in Montréal, founded by Saint Brother André in 1904. Visitors are welcomed free of charge into a site that is both a place of prayer and architectural grandeur.

Architecturally, the basilica combines Renaissance Revival exterior and Art Deco interior. It features Canada’s largest church dome (completed in 1967, towering 97 m) and seating for over 2,400 worshippers—with total capacity up to 10,000 on the grand terraces. The sanctuary includes a monumental Casavant Frères organ ranked among the world’s finest.

The Oratory encompasses multiple devotional areas: the Original Chapel (a modest prayer space dating back to 1904), the Crypt Church, Votive Chapel with some 10,000 candles, the tomb of Brother André, exhibits on his life (including preserved relic of his heart) and the Garden of the Way of the Cross nestled in contemplative greenery.

About two million visitors and pilgrims come annually, drawn by its spiritual ambience, accessible pilgrimage programs, midweek Mass for the sick, and pastoral support, including blessing of sacred objects and prayer intentions. Guided tours and a museum with nativity scenes and historical dioramas enhance the educational experience.

Accessibility is considerate: though staircases are prominent, elevators and handicapped access are available, especially if arriving from the upper parking area. Public transit is reliable: Côte‑des‑Neiges metro on the blue line lies about a 5‑minute walk away.

Visiting tips: arrive early for peaceful contemplation or to capture panoramic views over Montréal; there is no admission fee for the Oratory itself but guided tours or special events may charge; times for Mass and devotional‐services are posted on the Oratory’s schedule.

Overall, the Oratory balances monumental architecture, rich Catholic devotion, heritage exhibitions and tranquil garden spaces within an urban hilltop sanctuary.