Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church - a train on a track in front of a large building
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Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church

4.6
·550 reviews·Québec, Canada

Canada's oldest Catholic stone church, a historic gem in Quebec City's birthplace, Place Royale.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere, great photos

CrowdLow
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Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church - a train on a track in front of a large building

Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere, great photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Canada's oldest Catholic stone church, a historic gem in Quebec City's birthplace, Place Royale.

4.6
(550 reviews)

"A beautiful, historic church in the heart of Old Quebec, offering a glimpse into Canada's past."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Hours First

The church isn't always open, and can be under repair. Plan accordingly! :clock1:

Capture the Night View

The church looks magical at night. Great for evening strolls! :city_sunset:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oldest Stone Church in Canada

Oldest Stone Church in Canada

Place Royale

Marvel at the oldest Catholic stone church in Canada, with original walls dating back to 1688 .

Instagram
Historic Place Royale

Historic Place Royale

Lower Town, Old Quebec

Stand in the square where French North America began, surrounded by historic buildings .

TikTok
Beautifully Restored Interior

Beautifully Restored Interior

Inside the Church

Discover the elegant and peaceful interior, a testament to its rich history and restoration efforts .

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

While Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is free to enter, it's not always open, and can be under repair.Reddit Check hours and consider visiting early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.Reddit

Explore Place Royale's Charm

This historic church is nestled within Place Royale, the very birthplace of French North America.TikTok Allow time to wander this charming square and soak in the atmosphere of Old Quebec.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, great photos
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical ambiance, fewer people
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@e.kadventure got us exploring every little bit of Quebec’s beauty! ✨🏰 💡 @e.kadventure Quebec’s must visits: 📍Château Frontenac: a historic hotel built in the 1800s 📍Notre Dame des Victoires, Royal Square or Place-Royale: you will find the oldest catholic stone church from the 1600s 📍The Parliament: you can take a stroll by the garden and check the surrounding area 📍The Mural of Quebecers: a...
canada.explores
1.6K likes • 64.7K views

Check Opening Hours First

The church isn't always open, and can be under repair. Plan accordingly! :clock1:

Capture the Night View

The church looks magical at night. Great for evening strolls! :city_sunset:

Quebec City. Magical. #quebec #quebeccity #quebecity #québeccity #placeroyalequebec #notredamedesvictoires #notredamedesvictoireschurch #inkandwatercolour #urbansketching #pleinairpainting
marekbad64
526 likes • 6.3K views
Oldest church built in stone in all of Canada that still has its same walls. Construction started in 1688 and enlarged in 1723. @place_royale Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church. #quebeccity #vieuxquebec #travelvideo #cityreels #placeroyale #travelgram #tourismequebec #heritagesite #historicallandmark #daytrip #roadtrip #418
fedora_misadventures
20 likes • 367 views

Explore Place Royale

Don't just see the church; wander the historic square it's in! :world_map:

Filming Location Trivia

This church was a filming location for 'Catch Me If You Can'! :movie_camera:

One of the oldest churches in North America!!📍🇨🇦 Notre-Dame-Des-Victoires Church first underwent construction in 1687 and was completed in 1723!! Although it has been fully restored since its destruction at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, this chapel stands as a living image of Catholicism’s first presence in Canada. Steven Spielberg filmed here for the scene where Frank Abagnale gets arreste...
mtl_churches
168 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Hours First

The church isn't always open, and can be under repair. Plan accordingly! :clock1:

Capture the Night View

The church looks magical at night. Great for evening strolls! :city_sunset:

Explore Place Royale

Don't just see the church; wander the historic square it's in! :world_map:

Filming Location Trivia

This church was a filming location for 'Catch Me If You Can'! :movie_camera:

Free to Visit

Enjoy the beauty and history without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(550 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church for its historical significance and beautiful, serene interior. Many appreciate its free admission and its picturesque location within the charming Place Royale. Some note that opening hours can be inconsistent, and occasional repairs may limit access.

"We took the funicular down to lower QC to look at the historic sites. Wondering around we found this beautiful old restored Catholic Church. Glad it has been saved."

THE EXPLORER

"Wonderful little church in the heart of the old city. Be careful as it is not always open. Free to visit. Beautiful inside."

Gail Scott

"Montreal in Quebec is the best place to visit. also known as old Quebec. For you to enjoy this area you need 1 to 2 days. At Quebec people speak French a few can speak English. We went there by bus our first stop is notre dame des victoires catholic church unfortunately the church is under repair that is why we are not allow inside so taking some pictures around the area but was so impressed by the surroundings architecture mostly french and British influences stone buildings make the place worth a visit. After this place we walk to Fairmont le chateau frontenac hotel surrounding."

O I

What People Like

Historic significance
Beautiful interior
Free admission

What People Dislike

Inconsistent hours
Occasional repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is located in Place Royale in the lower town of Old Quebec City.Instagram You can reach it by walking downhill from the upper town, taking the Funicular, or by bus. Many visitors enjoy strolling through the historic streets to find it.Reddit

Yes, it's a central landmark in Place Royale, a well-known historic square. Just head towards the lower town of Old Quebec, and you'll find it easily.Instagram

Walking is highly recommended! Old Quebec is best explored on foot to appreciate the historic architecture and charming streets.Reddit

Driving directly to Place Royale can be challenging due to pedestrian zones and limited parking. It's generally easier to park in the upper town and walk or take the Funicular down.

Place Royale is a historic cobblestone square, which can be uneven. While the church itself is generally accessible, navigating the square might require some care with strollers or wheelchairs.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is free.Reddit However, it's important to note that the church is not always open and may be undergoing repairs.Reddit

The opening hours can vary and are not always consistently posted online. It's best to check locally or try visiting during typical daytime hours, though early morning or late evening can offer a peaceful experience.Reddit

Yes, visiting very early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid crowds and get better photos.Reddit Weekdays are also generally less busy than weekends.Reddit

During services or special events, access might be limited. It's advisable to check if any events are scheduled if you wish to visit for general sightseeing.

If the church is closed or under repair, you can still admire its exterior and the historic Place Royale surrounding it.Reddit The architecture of the square itself is a significant attraction.

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and evenings offer beautiful light and fewer people, making them ideal for capturing stunning photos of the church's exterior and the surrounding Place Royale.Reddit The church also looks magical at night.Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed inside, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors. Avoid using flash photography during services.

The entire Place Royale offers a picturesque setting. The church's facade, the cobblestone square, and the surrounding historic buildings all make for great shots.Instagram

Drone usage in Old Quebec City is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the church and the square. A tripod can be useful for low-light evening shots.Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

It's the oldest Catholic stone church in Canada, with construction beginning in 1687 and completed in 1723.Instagram It stands on the site of Samuel de Champlain's original habitation and is a symbol of early Catholicism in North America.Instagram

Construction started in 1687 and was completed in 1723.Instagram It was rebuilt in 1763 after being destroyed during the Siege of Quebec.Instagram

The name, meaning 'Our Lady of Victories,' commemorates French victories against the English in the 17th century.Instagram

Yes, it served as a filming location for Steven Spielberg's movie 'Catch Me If You Can,' standing in for a French village.InstagramReddit

It was built to serve the growing population of the lower town and to help people get to mass, especially during winter.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and Place Royale offer a gentle introduction to history for families. The historic square is relatively contained, making it manageable for little ones to explore. While the church itself might be quiet and solemn, the surrounding cobblestone streets and architecture can spark imagination. Consider making it part of a larger exploration of Old Quebec, perhaps combining it with a ride on the Funicular for added fun. Pack comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be uneven.Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and Place Royale are a dream. The historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and the church's facade offer endless visual opportunities.Instagram Aim for early mornings or late evenings to capture the best light and avoid crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots.Reddit The church also presents a beautiful subject when illuminated at night.Reddit Don't forget to explore the surrounding streets for unique perspectives and details.Instagram

🚶 History Buffs & Culture Seekers

This is a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in the founding of New France. Standing in Place Royale, where French North America began, is a profound experience.TikTok The church itself, as the oldest Catholic stone church in Canada, is a living testament to centuries of history.Instagram Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, read any available historical markers, and appreciate the architectural heritage that has been so carefully preserved.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Birthplace of New France

Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is more than just a beautiful building; it's a cornerstone of Canadian history. Located in Place Royale, this church stands on the very spot where Samuel de Champlain established Quebec City in 1608, marking the beginning of French colonization in North America.Instagram Construction of the church itself began in 1687 and was completed in 1723, making it the oldest Catholic stone church in Canada.Instagram Its original walls have witnessed centuries of history, including the dramatic Siege of Quebec, after which it was rebuilt in 1763.Instagram

The church's name, 'Our Lady of Victories,' is a nod to the French military successes that helped secure the colony's early years.Instagram Visiting Notre-Dame-des-Victoires is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the pioneers and events that shaped the nation. The surrounding Place Royale, with its well-preserved architecture, further enhances this immersive historical experience.TikTok

Beyond its historical significance, the church has also played a role in popular culture. It was famously used as a filming location for Steven Spielberg's acclaimed movie 'Catch Me If You Can,' where it stood in for a quaint French village.InstagramReddit This adds another layer of intrigue for visitors, blending historical reverence with a touch of Hollywood glamour.

Experiencing the Charm of Place Royale

Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church is intrinsically linked to Place Royale, the historic square where it resides. This charming plaza is considered the birthplace of French North America,TikTok and walking through it feels like stepping onto a movie set. The square is lined with beautifully preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, showcasing a blend of French and British architectural influences.Reddit It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and imagine life centuries ago.

Many visitors find the area incredibly picturesque, especially in the early morning or late evening when the crowds thin out.Reddit The cobblestone streets and historic facades create a romantic ambiance, making it a favorite for photographers.Instagram You can easily spend an hour or more exploring the nooks and crannies of Place Royale, discovering hidden details and enjoying the unique character of Old Quebec's lower town.

While the church is a primary draw, the entire square offers a rich experience. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling modern world. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful place to wander, Place Royale and its iconic church are a must-visit in Quebec City.Instagram

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