Mary Queen of the World Cathedral (Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde)

Montreal’s Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral (Cathédrale Marie Reine du Monde) is an European-inspired Basilica that also happens to be the seat of the Archdiocese for Montreal. The Cathedral is meant to be a scaled down version of the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It covers approximately one quarter of the area of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Formerly St. James Cathedral

Construction for the Cathedral started in 1875 under the leadership of Bishop Ignace Bourget. Although the work began in 1875, the Cathedral was only completed in 1894. The Cathedral was originally named the Saint James Cathedral, but it was renamed to Mary Queen of the World in 1955.

An European-Inspired Cathedral

The Cathedral is quite unique because of its European inspiration. Unlike other churches in Montreal, the interior of the Cathedral is completely European. The interior features impressive decorations, a large seating section and a huge alter.

The Seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese

The status standing atop the roofline of the Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral represents patron saints of Montreal. The fact that the Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral is a replica of the St. Peter’s basilica symbolizes the union between the Church in Canada and the Holy See. Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic archdiocese of Montreal. Many important masses are held at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral. Admission is free.

Images of Cathédrale Marie Reine du Monde

Cathédrale Marie Reine du Monde (Wikimedia)

Cathédrale Marie Reine du Monde (Stock Photo)

Cathédrale Marie Reine du Monde (Stock Photo)