Notre-Dame-du-Cap Shrine
Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap
One of Canada's most important Marian pilgrimage sites, with striking stained glass in the octagonal basilica, and a quiet riverside stone chapel and gardens.
The sanctuary is located on the east bank of Trois-Rivières at Cap-de-la-Madeleine. It became a pilgrimage center in 1888, after a “miracle” was reported when the image of the Virgin Mary in the local church appeared to open its eyes. The modern octagonal basilica, completed in 1964, holds about 1,500 people. Its surrounding stained-glass windows, designed by a Dutch artist, cast colorful light throughout. Next door, the small stone chapel built in 1720 is one of the oldest churches in North America still in use. The grounds include the “Rosary Bridge” leading to the river, gardens, and Stations of the Cross sculptures. Admission is free, and Mass is held daily in summer. It is about 5 km from the old town and can be reached by bus or car.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–20:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Île Saint-Quentin
- Boréalis
- Amphithéâtre Cogeco
- Ursuline Monastery Museum
- Port Park (Parc portuaire)
- Old Prison of Trois-Rivières (Musée POP)
- Old Trois-Rivières
- Manoir Boucher-de-Niverville