Ursulines Monastery and Museum
Discover the Ursulines' legacy in Quebec's history, from education to art, within a serene monastery and museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Ursulines Monastery and Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Ursulines' legacy in Quebec's history, from education to art, within a serene monastery and museum.
"The chapel is pretty, peaceful, and free, offering a quiet space away from the hordes of tourists."
Chapel is Free & Peaceful
The chapel is free to enter and offers a quiet, beautiful space away from the tourist crowds. :pray:
Check for Guided Tours
Guided tours can greatly enhance understanding, but availability varies. Inquire upon arrival. :information_desk:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Captivating Chapel Painting
Chapel
A powerful, historically significant painting depicting redemption and the complex history of slave trade. A must-see.

Sisters' Choir Chapel Glimpse
Chapel
Though inaccessible, catch a glimpse of its stunning stained glass, gilded wood, and spectacular dome.

Educational Exhibits
Museum
Discover the Ursulines' vital role in educating young women in Quebec's early history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Enhance Your Self-Guided Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chapel is Free & Peaceful
The chapel is free to enter and offers a quiet, beautiful space away from the tourist crowds. :pray:
Check for Guided Tours
Guided tours can greatly enhance understanding, but availability varies. Inquire upon arrival. :information_desk:
Research the History
Doing some reading beforehand enriches the self-guided museum experience. :books:
Visit Augustines Too
Consider visiting the Augustines Monastery nearby for a comparable experience. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Chapel is Free & Peaceful
The chapel is free to enter and offers a quiet, beautiful space away from the tourist crowds. :pray:
Check for Guided Tours
Guided tours can greatly enhance understanding, but availability varies. Inquire upon arrival. :information_desk:
Research the History
Doing some reading beforehand enriches the self-guided museum experience. :books:
Visit Augustines Too
Consider visiting the Augustines Monastery nearby for a comparable experience. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ursulines Monastery and Museum to be a peaceful and historically rich site, particularly appreciating the chapel and its significant artworks. While the museum offers valuable insights into the Ursuline order's educational legacy, some guests express a desire for more detailed information about specific exhibits, especially the chapel's captivating painting. The free access to the chapel is a notable positive for many.
"This chapel has a forgotten captivative painting, a must see! It depicts redemption or the purchase of white Christian slaves from the Muslim slave traders. A stunning piece of forgotten history. Front and centre of the painting is a large pile of gold coins. It is surrounded by three main characters, semingly making the trade. Two men dressed in traditional Muslim dress sit opposite of three man standing, dressed in traditional christian attire. Behind the two sitting figures, a large group of men all in disarray. White slaves are bound by their hands with chains and whipped above their heads with a whip held by their captors dressed in traditional muslim turbans. In the far background, two separate scenes depicting the torture of slaves. And in the opposite upper corner is a divine figure looking from above the clouds. The whole seen is tragic, yet, so inspiring!
I would love to know more about this painting, is unfortunately there was no information provided. Hopefully the museum will change that soon."
Real Mama
"I visited the Ursulines and Augustines monasteries on the same day and paid the same entry fee. The experiences though were not the same. The Augustines exceeded my expectations, the Ursulines did not meet them. The difference? The guided tour. While the Ursulines sometimes offers guided tours -if that day the staff is available- the museum was conceived for self-guided tours. It's a shame because the history of the place and the story of its people deserves to be known.
The chapel you may visit without hesitation; it's pretty, peaceful and free."
Helena Andújar
"We happened upon this chapel while walking around Old Quebec, and was glad we had.
The collection of pre-french revolution paintings hung in the chapel for the public are worth the stop as is a glimpse into the Sisters Choir chapel. This side chapel has no access to the public but appears to have beautiful stained glass windows, gilded carved wood and spectacular dome.
A quiet, bight and holy space, away from the hordes or tourists."
Brenda Berry Berry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ursulines Monastery and Museum is located in Old Quebec. It's easily accessible by walking if you're already in the historic district. Public buses also serve the area. Parking can be challenging in Old Quebec, so consider public transport or walking if possible.
Information on wheelchair accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific access points and any limitations within the historic buildings. :wheelchair:
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit. :clock:
Yes, the chapel is often accessible for free and can be visited independently of the museum. It's a peaceful space to explore. :pray:
Parking in Old Quebec can be limited and expensive. There are several public parking garages nearby, but walking or using public transport is often more convenient. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for the museum portion. However, the chapel itself is often free to enter. Check the official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. :ticket:
Booking in advance is generally not required for the museum, but it's always a good idea to check the official website, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. :computer:
While specific combination tickets might not always be advertised, consider visiting the nearby Augustines Monastery, as some visitors have noted paying a similar entry fee for both. :link:
Your admission ticket typically grants access to the museum's exhibits detailing the history and mission of the Ursuline order, as well as their educational contributions. :scroll:
The chapel is often free to enter, offering a serene space for reflection. However, it's always wise to confirm this upon arrival. :dollar:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on the Ursuline order's history, their role in education, and view significant artworks, including a captivating painting in the chapel. You can also glimpse the Sisters' Choir Chapel. :art:
The museum is primarily designed for self-guided tours. Guided tours are sometimes offered, but their availability depends on staff presence. :walking:
This refers to a significant painting in the chapel depicting redemption and historical themes related to slave trade. It's a focal point for many visitors. :frame_photo:
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage within the museum and chapel regarding where photography is permitted, especially for the artworks. :camera:
A visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you take a guided tour. The chapel can be a quick, peaceful stop. :timer:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no dining facilities within the monastery or museum itself. However, Old Quebec is filled with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of culinary options. :forkandknife:
You'll find a variety of dining experiences, from traditional Quebecois cuisine and French bistros to international flavors and casual cafes, all within walking distance in Old Quebec. :croissant:
Yes, while Old Quebec has upscale dining, you can also find more affordable options like bakeries, sandwich shops, and casual eateries if you explore a bit further from the main tourist paths. :moneybag:
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into museums and chapels is discouraged. It's best to consume them before or after your visit. :water_wave:
Don't miss trying poutine, tourtière (meat pie), and maple-infused desserts. Many restaurants in the area will feature these local specialties. :maple_leaf:
📸 📸 Photography
The chapel, with its unique painting and architectural details, is a prime spot. The courtyard and exterior architecture also offer great photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Photography rules can vary. While some visitors have shared photos, it's crucial to look for signage or ask staff about restrictions, especially concerning the artworks. :no_photography:
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the chapel. A versatile lens will help capture both the grand architecture and intricate details of the art. :dslr:
Focus on the details of the chapel's painting, the stained glass windows, gilded wood carvings, and the dome for unique shots. The historical artifacts in the museum are also noteworthy. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric photos. The light filtering through the chapel windows can be particularly beautiful. :sunrise:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip for families: Look for any interactive elements or simplified explanations within the museum. If possible, research some basic facts about the Ursuline order beforehand to make the visit more relatable for younger visitors. The courtyard can also be a nice spot for a brief break.
🏛️ History Buffs
Recommendation: Allocate ample time to explore the museum thoroughly. Consider visiting the Augustines Monastery nearby for a comparative historical perspective on religious life and education in Quebec City.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ursulines' Enduring Legacy in Quebec
Visitors can learn about the Ursulines' commitment to providing education, often to girls from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous populations and those from settler families. This educational focus was crucial for social cohesion and the transmission of knowledge in the colony. The museum's collection includes artifacts, documents, and personal items that bring this history to life, making it a valuable educational experience for all ages.
Exploring the Chapel's Artistic and Historical Significance
While the museum aims to provide context, some visitors have noted a desire for more detailed information about this specific painting, highlighting its power and the need for further historical explanation. Beyond this central artwork, the chapel features other elements of artistic merit, including what appears to be beautiful stained glass windows, gilded carved wood, and a spectacular dome, offering a rich visual experience even if direct access to certain areas is limited.
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