One of the most well established private galleries in Montreal, this prestigious space specializes in contemporary Canadian art, especially in the Inuit communities from the north. Pieces range from traditional soapstone carvings to surprisingly complex and occasionally harrowing depictions of animals and other figures. Elca caters to a very upscale clientele.
Notre-Dame's twin towers have served as an Old Montreal landmark since the Neo-Gothic basilica was finished in 1829. Today they continue to be the focal point, where tourists disembark from buses and calèche drivers line up for passengers. The interior glows with gilded statuary and gold-leafed fleurs de lys, and is home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world. The Montreal Symphony Orchestra performs its Christmas production of Messiah here at the Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal or the Notre-Dame Basilica.
Straddling a two-kilometer (1.24 mile) stretch along the St. Lawrence River, the Old Port of Montreal has operated as an active hub since 1611 when it was used as a fur trading post by French settlers. It has since transformed into a bustling area which beckons tourists and locals alike. Besides being home to a bevy of attractions like the IMAX Theatre, the Montreal Science Centre and the Montreal Clock Tower, it is also a recreational wonderland, especially during winter months. Marked by ice sculptures, skating and a lively nativity scene, as well as vibrant festivals like the Festival Montréal en lumière, the Old Port of Montreal hosts a decidedly thriving cultural scene. With numerous dining options, bargain shops, trendy boutiques, tours and riverfront activities dotting its pretty vicinity, the Old Port is an all inclusive attraction in itself.
Saint Joseph's Oratory in Montreal is the nation's largest church, its regal dome second in height only to St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. A small chapel dedicated to Saint Joseph was built at the site in 1904 by Brother André, renowned for his miraculous ability to heal the injured and ailing. He was later beatified in 1982 and canonized in 2010. Completed in 1960, the renaissance church that replaced the original shrine encompasses a basilica, a votive chapel lined with discarded crutches, and the heart of Brother André amongst several other treasures. Outside, the Stations of the Cross grace the sculpture garden where scenes from the film Jésus of Montréal were shot. The oratory itself is a striking beauty that dominates the skyline for miles around, its elegant dome rising high above the bucolic scene. One of the world's most revered Catholic shrines and an important place of pilgrimage, Saint Joseph's Oratory inspires wonder in the hearts of the devout and the simply curious.
Plans for the construction of the Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral first began in 1852, soon after Saint-Jacques Cathedral was destroyed by fire. At the behest of Ignace Bourget, the architect Victor Bourgeau was assigned the ambitious task of designing a cathedral in the image of the magnificent St Peter's Basilica in Rome. The architectural masterpiece was completed in 1894 and is renown today as one of Quebec's most revered religious sites. Inside a spectacular baldachin adorns the altar and elaborate paintings depict the early history of Montreal, while outside exquisitely wrought statues of the city's 13 patron saints watch over the people, replacing the 12 statues of Christ's apostles that adorn the exterior walls of St Peter's Basilica. The cathedral remains a sacred place of worship even as it attracts droves of tourists who are drawn to its austere beauty and artistic treasures.
Featuring an extensive collection of Barbie dolls decked in iconic designer wear, Barbie Expo attracts scores of visitors who flock here to admire the intricate detailing and haute couture designs pertaining to different styles. This fascinating expo displays the work of many world-renowned designers, including Ralph Lauren, Christian Dior and Carolina Herrera among others.
This non-profit artist-run gallery and center has been around since 1982; it includes exhibitions, video screenings and performance art, along with an artist residence. Special programs include lectures and concerts. The center is open to all the arts, be they experimental or traditional, and presents the full spectrum of artistic ideas and forms. Oboro consistently encourages artists from Montreal's various communities and cultures.
This legendary Montreal institution, Centre Segal des Arts de la Scène, offers events and activities year-round for the entire family, including theater, fine arts and exhibits associated with the School of Fine Arts. Exhibitors at the Liane and Danny Taran Gallery have included Pieter Laurens Mol, Susan Rothenberg and John Scott. The gallery hosts many traveling exhibits. Since first opening in 1967, the center has built an enviable reputation for its multi-disciplinary approach to both performing and visual arts. Tickets for various other events vary in price.
This is one of Canada's foremost galleries of Native artwork, and has recently relocated to the poshest stretch of Sherbrooke Street West, next to many other prestigious galleries. Exhibits feature striking Inuit sculptures by well-known artists such as Toonoo Sharky and Omalluk Oshutsiaq. Other non-Native crafts include a selection of tableware, vases, wall hangings and other pieces from across Canada. Prices befit the gallery's reputation and its status in the Montreal art's scene.
Located in the Bonsecours Market, Art et Antiquités Medius represents the rich heritage of Canada. The unique selection of Inuit, Amerindian and Quebec art reflect the cultural diversity. European paintings from 17th and 19th Century and antique furniture from 18th-19h Centuries feature among the showcased collection. Connoisseurs and art lovers can't stop admiring the frameworks of art. This place is ideal for locals and tourists who have an eye for art.
As the name suggests, the École de musique Vincent-d'Indy is a college offering courses in the field of music and other specializations.
Tucked away in the midst of residential, commercial and educational properties, this spot is well-known among the local music enthusiasts. The Drones Club is a musical hub where provincial musicians and international artists perform regularly. Some of their previous listings are Roomrunner, Tops, Lantern, Freak Heat Waves and Calvin Love.