Discover this tour
Learn the story of the saints
This pilgrimage follows a trail that connects the resting places of the saintly Founders of the Canadian Church in the heart of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized internationally for its rich history. Walk in the footsteps of those who built the City of Québec, the cradle of French civilization in North America.
Along the way, you’ll step back in time to discover the places where these exceptional men and women left their mark. Driven by extraordinary determination, these outstanding figures devoted their lives to building caring, committed communities. Their values, courage and dedication continue to inspire those who walk these same paths today.
This rich heritage will inspire you to reflect and discover and engage in a moment of connection with your inner self and with the past during the stops on the various stages of the tour.
A pilgrimage that is open to all
The churches and chapels along this pilgrimage trail are located within a radius of just half a square kilometre, making your journey easy and enjoyable. It only takes a few minutes to walk from one site to the next, allowing you to complete the pilgrimage at your own pace. Whether you’re on your own, with family or part of a group, enjoy a flexible experience that you can easily adjust according to the time you have and each person’s needs and abilities.
Sites to visit on this pilgrimage :
Start your pilgrimage with a visit to one of Old Québec’s historic jewels: the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. Bearing witness to centuries past, its imposing columns are actually the remains of earlier buildings. Inside a funeral chapel rests François de Laval, the first bishop of New France.
On the north side of the Basilica-Cathedral, you’ll find one of the world’s seven Holy Doors. Québec City’s Holy Door, the only one outside of Europe, symbolizes the passage between what we leave behind and the path we choose to take. Even when sealed, pilgrims can approach it, touch this fascinating piece of history and pause for a moment of contemplation.
Address:
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral
16 Rue De Buade, Québec (Québec), G1R 4A1
notre-dame-de-quebec.org
Hours of operation:
Please refer to the website.
To learn more about the legacy of François de Laval, the first bishop of New France, step into this centre dedicated to him in the very heart of the Basilica-Cathedral. Make your way through themed stations and immerse yourself in his daily life, the challenges he faced and how he influenced the development of the region.
Short texts and audiovisual materials bring this man who was called an “Apostle of America” to life. This immersive visit sheds light on a key figure in history, whose impact is still felt today.
Address:
Centre d’animation François-De Laval
Main entrance of the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, at the intersection of the Sainte-Famille and De Buade streets.
1 418 692-0228
francoisdelaval.com
Hours of operation:
Every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except during religious services
Your next stop is the Centre Marie-de-l’Incarnation, a spiritual centre dedicated to the fascinating life and legacy of Marie Guyart de l’Incarnation. This mother, businesswoman, educator and writer played a key role in the history of New France.
Through the watercolours of Sister Louise Godin and the stories told by passionate guides, immerse yourself in the world and writings of Marie Guyart de l’Incarnation, which are among the most precious testimonies of the founding of the colony and the establishment of the Catholic Church in America. Don’t miss the chance to see unique treasures like her rosary, a 17th-century Missal and a rare edition of letters.
Address:
Centre Marie-de-l’Incarnation
6 Rue du Parloir, Québec (Québec), G1R 4M5
418 692-2523, ext. 2226
Webpage
Hours of operation:
May to October: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
October to April: Wednesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
(schedule subject to change without notice)
Make your way to another jewel of religious heritage: the Jesuits’ chapel. Erected in 1818, it bears witness to the history of this congregation and the skills of many of its craftsmen. A sanctuary dedicated to the Canadian Martyrs, this chapel also houses the relics of Jesuit missionary Charles Garnier.
Take the time to admire the building’s rich decor, which combines art and spirituality: an organ dating back to 1887, Stations of the Cross sculpted by Médard Bourgault and numerous stained-glass windows, including 14 by Maison Bernard Leonard. Outside, statues of Quebec saints watch over this place steeped in memory.
Address:
Chapel of the Jesuits
20 Rue Dauphine, Québec (Québec), G1R 3W8
1 418 694-0601, ext. 119
Webpage
Hours of operation:
The chapel opens on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. (before mass at 5 p.m.).
Your pilgrimage ends at the Centre Catherine-de-Saint-Augustin, where you can discover the inspiring legacy of this heroic Hospitaler nun, who also contributed to the founding of the Canadian Church. Located in the heart of the Augustinian Monastery, this Centre invites visitors to follow in Blessed Marie-Catherine’s footsteps on a guided tour that reveals her commitment and influence.
Inside is an ancient door that leads to the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, the first hospital in North America still in operation. The architecture by Thomas Baillargé, the 1931 organ loft, the Casavant organ and the precious relics of many Saints make for a richer visit. To finish your pilgrimage, take a seat at Le Vivoir du Monastère restaurant, and enjoy a few moments of peace and quiet to recharge your batteries.
Address:
Main entrance: 75 Rue des Remparts, Québec (Québec), G1R 3R9
Pedestrian entrance: 32 Rue Charlevoix, Québec (Québec), G1R 3R9
1 418 694-8560
Webpage
Hours of operation:
Tuesday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
