DESTINATION
QUÉBEC : THE CRADLE OF FRENCH CIVILIZATION IN NORTH AMERICA
Québec City
GUY LESSARD
The Canadian province of Québec offers a treasure trove of options for religious travelers , from its collection of famous shrines to the breathtaking beauty of its natural landscapes that encourage tranquility and meditation . Québec also delivers a taste of Europe on this side of the pond , thanks to its French-speaking population , culinary traditions , history , culture and art . A quick fl ight to Montréal or Québec City and groups can enjoy the eclectic architecture , boutiques and variety of food offerings that make these cities unique . Travel to Québec is especially convenient for visitors from the U . S ., as Montréal is only a six-hour drive from New York City or a two-hour fl ight from Chicago .
Magnificent Shrines Québec ’ s National Shrines , an organiation founded in 2009 , promotes awareness and tourism of the fi ve Catholic shrines located in the Canadian province . Visited by more than 4 million pilgrims and tourists each year , the fi ve sites offer a glimpse into the history of Christianity in Canada .
Saint Joseph ’ s Oratory of Mount Royal Founded in 1904 , this shrine is the largest in the world dedicated to Saint Joseph . Visitors are treated to music , exhibits of more than 200 nativity scenes from 100 countries and unmatched views of Montréal from the shrine ’ s mountainside location .
Our Lady of the Cape Shrine This shrine is located in the Mauricie region on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River and is dedicated to Mary , the mother of Jesus . Welcoming more than a half million pilgrims every year , the site includes a chapel built in 1714 and a modern basilica completed in 1964 with beautiful stained-glass windows .
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral A UNESCO World Heritage site , the basilica is located in Old Québec City and was founded in 1647 . The fi rst cathedral and Catholic place of worship founded north of Mexico , it was instrumental in the development of Québec , Canada and North America over the years and stands as evidence of the perseverance and faith of the early pioneers and pilgrims who settled in Canada .
Shrine of Sainte-Anne de Beaupré Founded in 1658 , this shrine , the second-oldest pilgrimage site in North America , is dedicated to Saint Anne , the grandmother of Jesus . With more than 350 years of history , this cathedral welcomes almost 1 million visitors annually from all over the world , regardless of race or religion .
10 routes of faith