Built in 1914, Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs is now a heritage site. A true jewel of Montreal, this ashlar church houses a magnificent organ by Maison Casavant. You’ll be dazzled by its monumental triumphal arch façade and octagonal bell tower.
Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs is part of the heritage of the wonderful Verdun district, located southwest of the island of Montreal on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. It was originally built as the church of the parish of Verdun, which after being recognized as a city was annexed by Montreal in 2002 and became the borough so beloved by Montrealers.
Its Beaux-Arts exterior and symmetrical façade conceal a neo-Baroque interior. On your way here, you can enjoy the many parks in the vicinity, the urban beach of Verdun, or take a detour to Nuns’ Island.
You can get there via the “De l’Église” metro station, or by bus: 37, 58 and 61.
Anecdotes and curiosities about Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church
1. Why Notre-Dame-Des-Sept-Douleurs?
The name highlights the Mother’s association with her Son’s pain. The “seven pains” refer to the events that caused the anguished Virgin Mary to suffer as she accompanied her Son, Jesus, on his mission of redemption.
2. Exceptional location
It’s located in the Verdun district, but more precisely on rue Wellington, voted the best street in the world by Timeout. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll in the neighborhood, and spend a wonderful afternoon in Montreal.
3. The organ
The organ was commissioned in 1913 and blessed on October 25, 1914, at the same time as the church, and has not been changed since. It was built by Casavant Frères, one of the world’s top five organ builders.
Candlelight concerts at Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church
Candlelight concerts give you the opportunity to see this magnificent church under the light of an infinite number of candles , in a magical atmosphere. The Church of Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs will transport you through the ages with its incredible architecture and classic tunes of contemporary hits.
Candlelight Concerts offer something for everyone, from pop to classical to contemporary favourites. You’ll be blown away by the magic of the evening! Don’t miss Candlelight concerts at Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs.
What else can you do at Église Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs?
Every Wednesday, all summer long, come and discover free musical performances in the sumptuous church, located in the heart of Promenade Wellington. To delight your ears, Notre-Dame-des-Sept-douleurs has many surprises in store, with a carefully selected program of concerts. You can then enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood, stopping off at one of its many restaurants or cafés.
You can also attend mass all year round. From Monday to Saturday it’s at 4pm, and on Sundays at 9.30am, 11am and 5pm. How much does it cost? Well, it’s free – just respect the ceremony, and donations are always welcome.
Montreal has no shortage of exceptional places to visit: the Cabaret Lion d’Or and the Théâtre Rialto, among many others, are proof of this. But this church has something special about it, a unique aura that makes the experience of a Candlelight concert unforgettable as it glistens under a myriad of candles and its high ceilings reflect the soaring sounds of musical instruments.