Vitraux colorés et fresques murales à l'intérieur de la chapelle de la Basilique-Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Sherbrooke.
Photo credit: Archidiocèse de Sherbrooke

Discover art in Quebec’s religious and heritage sites

Quebec’s religious and heritage sites are renowned for the works of art they display. Some date back to New France. Some feature works dating back to the early days of New France, while others celebrate the talent of contemporary artists from here and around the world, whose works can be admired in the province’s chapels, churches, cathedrals and basilicas. Visitors can contemplate paintings, frescoes, sculptures and masterpieces of stained glass and goldsmithery in a quiet ambience. Art lovers, take note: here are a few destinations to discover, courtesy of Divine Quebec.

01 Discover the experience
01

Discover the experience

Step inside a masterpiece by Ozias Leduc
+ -

Inside the Basilique-Cathédrale Saint-Michel (website in French only), the Archbishop’s Chapel is a feast for the eyes and a piece of Quebec’s heritage. Painted by artist Ozias Leduc between 1922 and 1932, the chapel captivates visitors with its star-studded azure ceiling and canvases depicting biblical scenes. A self-guided tour of the cathedral allows visitors to uncover even more of its treasures. As you explore, you’ll get a closer look at the grandeur of this 1919 building and the details that make it truly special.

Attend a visual arts symposium
+ -

The second largest Marian shrine in North America, Our Lady of the Cape Shrine in Trois-Rivières was founded in 1888. The architecture of the basilica with its octagonal dome is impressive, as are the magnificent stained-glass windows that shine in the sunlight. Each year, the gardens of the shrine host Trois-Rivières’ Visual Art Symposium. It celebrates all forms of art produced by artists from across Quebec. This cultural event will take place on September 12 and 13, 2026, offering a chance to discover the work and world of nearly 60 artists.

Visit a Neo-Gothic gem in the heart of Montreal
+ -

In the heart of Montreal’s Quartier des spectacles, St. James United Church captivates visitors with its impressive Victorian Neo-Gothic architecture, inspired by French medieval cathedrals. In the evening, its façade on Sainte-Catherine Street lights up, highlighting the building’s intricate details while blending heritage with modernity. Inside, art lovers can admire several stained-glass windows, including a magnificent memorial window dedicated to the First World War. Designed by Charles William Kelsey, an English-born artist who settled in Montreal, it is one of the many stained-glass works that enrich the décor of this iconic downtown landmark.

Discover an ornate jewel and a Holy Door
+ -

The Basilica-cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec is covered in ornamental details that are a delight to behold. Located in the heart of Old Québec City, this place of worship is known for its Holy Door. Inaugurated in 2013, the door was sculpted by Montreal artist Jules Lasalle. Since it remains closed except during holy years or jubilees, it can be admired from the outside, then from the inside by going into the room specially designed for meditation.

 

Explore an architectural masterpiece just minutes from Québec City
+ -

Located 20 minutes from Québec City, the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine has a rich collection of paintings, mosaics, stained-glass windows and stone and wood sculptures. In addition to the basilica, which houses a chapel and other beautifully decorated places for meditation, other noteworthy features are the “Scala Santa,” the memorial chapel and the bronze cast iron Way of the Cross.

Admire more works by Ozias Leduc
+ -

A trip to the Montérégie region wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Cathedral of Saint Hyacinthe. Its Neoclassical architecture includes twin Neogothic towers on the current façade. Inside are paintings by Ozias Leduc to admire, including “Le Père éternel” (The Eternal Father), as well as works by Joseph Uberti. You can also admire magnificent stained glass windows depicting symbols of the Eucharist.

Dive into the art of repoussé copper
+ -

At Albert Gilles Copper Art in Château-Richer, near Québec City, step into the fascinating world of repoussé copper and discover the legacy of master artisan Albert Gilles. Three museum exhibitions bring this unique art form to life, from its history to the family tradition that continues today through five women of the Gilles family. Want to try your hand at it? Join a hands-on workshop to learn the basics and create your own copper artwork. Before you leave, browse the boutique for one-of-a-kind creations, from clocks and trays to lamps, decorative plates and jewellery.

Photo credit: Michel Julien
Photo credit: Albert Gilles Copper Art