River Sanctuaries tour adds two new heritage sites
Two new members join Quebec’s first structured religious heritage circuit – the Sanctuaires du fleuve. Created in 2016, this grouping of heritage sites now offers a seven-stop itinerary along the South Shore of the St. Lawrence, from Varennes to Châteauguay.
This addition enhances the already diversified offering by including a church built in 1840 in La Prairie, twinned with the Musée archéologique de Roussillon. As for the Manoir d’Youville, located in Châteauguay, it adds both a “historical” and “environmental” dimension, with the magnificent site of Île Saint-Bernard.
The addition of two new members: La Nativité-de-la-Sainte-Vierge church (La Prairie) and Manoir d’Youville (Châteauguay) confirms the group’s commitment to showcasing the region’s rich religious and spiritual heritage. It enhances the offering by adding a number of more specific components, such as archaeology and a resort with a hotel.
Treasures to discover
Each member of the circuit has its own undeniable architectural and heritage character. From the very first approach, you can see the particularities of the various architectural styles and the ingenuity of the craftsmen of the time.
These architectural gems are complemented by a museum space inside, packed with information on the history of the site, highlighting the careers of inspirational figures and showing special artifacts. Just think of the exhibition dedicated to the objects of worship at Sainte-Famille church in Boucherville.
The River Sanctuaries are all open during the summer season. Some are also open year-round by appointment. At all times, it’s best to make an appointment or get information from each site. Admission is free (voluntary contribution) in most cases, or at an affordable rate.
- Sainte-Marguerite-d’Youville Sanctuary | lgirard@sanctuaireyouville.ca | 450 652-6976
- Sainte-Famille Church | stefamilpar@videotron.ca | 450 655-9024
- Marie-Rose Center | reception@snjm.org | 450 651-8104
- Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue Co-Cathedral | receptionantoine@bellnet.ca | 450 674-1549
- La Nativité de la Sainte-Vierge Church | sanctuaire@lanativite.org | 450 659-1133, ext 0
- Sainte-Kateri-Tekakwitha Sanctuary | info@kahnawaketourism.com | 450 632-6030
- d’Youville Manor | info@manoirdyouville.com | 1-844-900-8291
