Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours

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Lonely Planet review

Known as the Sailors' Church, this enchanting chapel derives its name from the sailors who left behind votive lamps in the shape of ships in thanksgiving for safe passage. The restored interior has inspirational paintings of the Virgin Mary, stained-glass windows depicting stations of her life and a variety of icons including a recumbent statue of Marguerite Bourgeoys.

The exterior has been remodeled so many times that little of the original remains; a large statue of the Virgin Mary crowned with an aureole of stars graces the roof of the double-bell tower.

In the attached Musée Marguerite-Bourgeoys, vignettes tell the story of Montréal's first teacher and the founder of the Congregation of Notre-Dame order of nuns. The crypt has artifacts dating back 2000 years and foundations of the original chapel from 1773. Climb the 292 steps to the observation tower for a fabulous view of the Old Port, a great spot for the kids.