The Government of Canada Recognizes the National Historic Significance of the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
News Release
December 17, 2017 Ottawa, Ontario Parks Canada Agency
Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, today commemorated the importance of the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, as a place of national historic significance. A special ceremony was held in Ottawa at the Basilica with members of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, members of the Notre Dame Basilica and its congregation and members of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Ottawa.
The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant people, places, and events that contributed to our country’s diverse heritage. The church was initially planned as a simple parish church in 1839, and was transformed in stature and design as it achieved the status of cathedral for the new Catholic Diocese of Bytown in 1847 and then basilica in 1879. Inspired by French Gothic Revival style, the basilica has integrated elements of classicism and French-Canadian church architecture, as well as a richly decorated interior which is considered one of the finest in the country. As the spiritual centre of Ottawa’s Catholic community, the bell towers and twin spires of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica have graced Ottawa’s downtown skyline for over 150 years.
This year also marks the centennial of national historic sites and Parks Canada invites Canadians to be inspired and captivated by the stories of the people, places and events that shaped the Canada of today. We encourage you to learn more about our country’s history, and discover truly Canadian places and stories with Parks Canada.
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Quotes
“The Government of Canada is pleased to commemorate the national historic significance of the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. The design and artistry of the basilica is an exceptional example of skill and craftsmanship, and the bilingual services offered are a true reflection of the linguistic duality that exists in Ottawa and in Canada as a whole. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, I encourage all Canadians to take this opportunity to learn more about this beautiful place and its important role in our country’s history.”
Mona Fortier,
Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier
“We are most fortunate to have inherited such a beautiful place of worship from the many generations of Catholics who have worshipped in this church since the early 19th century. Through its architecture and significant artwork, this building stands as a vibrant statement to the glory of God and to the faith of so many. We are happy to share it with visitors from all parts of our country and from all over the world. May all feel welcomed in God’s house.”
Archbishop Terrence Prendergast
Archdiocese of Ottawa
Quick Facts
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The richly decorated interior of the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica features detailed, vaulted ceilings painted blue with gold stars which are embellished with ribs, supported by faux wooden marble columns. Noted Canadian sculptor Louis-Philippe Hébert created some of the interior sculptures, while a series of stained glass windows were executed by Guido Nincheri in the late 1950s. Both are recognized as national historic persons for their contributions to art in Canada.
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Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is prominently located on Sussex Drive in one of Ottawa’s oldest neighbourhoods, home to a large number of Catholic institutional buildings including the Archbishop’s Palace and the Grey Nuns Mother House.
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Significant events held at the basilica include the state funerals of Sir Wilfrid Laurier and Governor General Georges Vanier, as well as a visit by Pope John Paul II.
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Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada’s history.
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Contacts
Bruce MacMillan
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Georgian Bay and Ontario East Field Unit
Parks Canada
bruce.macmillan@pc.gc.ca
613-923-5261 extension 122
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca