The main purpose of this section is to give teachers a preview of Marguerite-Bourgeoys Historic Site before their class visit.
Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site exhibits several artifacts that recall the faith, bravery and devotion of Marguerite. The spirit of Marguerite is present through these objects which belonged to her more than 350 years ago.
In 2005, the physical presence of Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys was added to Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel when her mortal remains were placed in the left altar of the chapel, under the statue of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours. Since then, many faithful have come to meditate and pray at her tomb.
When we learn about the accomplishments of Marguerite Bourgeoys, a woman of courage and compassion, we discover the world of the French colonists who crossed the Atlantic to find a country at the heart of an untamed and hostile land.
A model of determination, Marguerite left us three major achievements: the first school in Ville-Marie, the oldest stone chapel in Montreal, and an uncloistered community of women religious - the Congrégation de Notre-Dame.
Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel are located along the St. Lawrence River. Magnificently overlooking the Old Port, the tower of this small bicentenary church offers the most expansive view of Old Montreal.
From the belvedere, you can admire today’s landscape while imagining the city as it once was, with the river, the forest, Fort Ville-Marie and the few dwellings found there.
In the vault beneath the current chapel, showcases, panels and photos bring to life the history of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The first faubourg of Ville-Marie developed around this church.
A place of pilgrimage erected by Marguerite Bourgeoys, first stone church of Montreal, cradle of the English-speaking Catholic community of Montreal (English, Irish and Scottish families), sailors’ chapel, sanctuary and concert hall, Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours has survived three centuries of incidents and changes. However, its doors have always remained open to the faithful and to tourists from around the world.
Situated beneath the nave of the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel and accessible through the vault, an exceptional archeological site awaits visitors!
During excavations carried out between 1996 and 1997, archeologists made many discoveries each one more fascinating than the last. You can see (upon reservation) traces of Amerindian encampments dating back more than 2000 years, material evidence of the terrible fire that destroyed Marguerite’s first chapel, its remnants, and the imprint by the wooden fence that formed the fortification of Ville-Marie in 1709.
For more information or to visit Marguerite Bourgeoys Historic Site with your class, please contact the person responsible for educational programs at: info@marguerite-bourgeoys.com.