Saint Joseph's Oratory, perched atop Mount Royal, is one of the world's most visited centres of pilgrimage. The basilica's huge dome reaches 97 meters and is second only in height to Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. The imposing edifice contrasts sharply with the slight stature of its founder, Saint Brother André, the humble doorkeeper who inspired its construction in 1904. Dedicated to Saint Joseph, the shrine includes among other things, the small original chapel, a votive chapel, a crypt church, and the Basilica which can accommodate over 2,200 people. The votive chapel contains personal items (called ex-votos) left behind by thankful pilgrims in memory of a claimed healing. Its magnificent organs and its carillon composed of 56 bells give audible testament to the world’s great composers.
