Pandemic obliges: only two sanctuaries open this summer

The Sainte-Marguerite d’Youville sanctuary and the Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue co-cathedral are the only members of the Sanctuaires du fleuve to open their doors to the public this summer. The constraints imposed by the pandemic have forced the other sanctuaries to remain closed until further notice.

Those with a passion for history and religious heritage will nevertheless have access to two sites rich in history.

Varennes

For one, the Sainte-Marguerite d’Youville Shrine in Varennes returns with its temporary exhibition entitled Marguerite: farms to feed the poor. It’s a great opportunity to delve into the history of this businesswoman, who was director of the Montreal General Hospital from 1747 to 1771. You’ll discover all the expertise of this Varennes native and founder of the Grey Nuns of Montreal.

Visitors to the sanctuary can also take advantage of their visit to appreciate the permanent exhibition In Marguerite’s Footsteps. They can continue their exploration at the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de Varennes, which is brimming with heritage treasures, including the saint’s funeral chapel and tomb.

The sanctuary is open until September 27, 2020. Guided tours are offered Wednesday to Saturday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free admission – Voluntary contribution.

For reservations : 450 652-2441 | http://sanctuaireyouville.ca/

Longueuil

The co-cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue is also open to the public. Lovers of heritage and architecture will appreciate this neo-Gothic building with a neo-Byzantine dome.

The Musée de la Cocathédrale also presents a temporary exhibition entitled Autochtones du continent, coutumes et savoir-faire collectés. It features a collection of Amerindian artefacts and ecofacts collected by Monique Gagnon and Roger Guay, two of Longueuil’s great travellers of the American continent. Visitors can also explore the permanent exhibition, which traces the origins of the parish with the help of numerous objects.

Guided tours are offered until September 7, Wednesday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission – Voluntary contribution.

For reservations : 450–674-1549, ext 0 | cocathedrale.ca