Places of Worship

We are all aware Canada is home to a number of world-class museums that showcase its rich history, culture, art, and natural wonders. Here’s a list of some of the most well-known museums in Canada:

St. Joseph’s Oratory (Montreal, Quebec)

• St. Joseph’s Oratory is one of Canada’s largest churches and is a Roman Catholic basilica located on Mount Royal. It is a major pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking views of the city. The basilica is renowned for its massive dome, beautiful gardens, and its association with Saint Brother André, who was credited with many healing miracles.

Notre-Dame Basilica (Montreal, Quebec)

• Located in Old Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica is famous for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture. The interior is decorated with intricate wood carvings, vibrant stained glass windows, and a grand organ. It is a popular site for tourists and locals alike, known for its light and sound show that narrates the history of the city.

Mosque of Toronto (Toronto, Ontario)

•  One of the largest mosques in Canada, the Mosque of Toronto, also known as Masjid Toronto, serves as a spiritual center for the Muslim community in the Greater Toronto Area. The mosque offers daily prayers, educational programs, and community services. It is a hub of activity during the holy month of Ramadan.

Shaarei Shomayim Synagogue (Toronto, Ontario)

•  Shaarei Shomayim is one of Toronto’s oldest and largest Orthodox Jewish synagogues. The synagogue is active in religious services, education, and community events. Its architecture blends traditional elements with modern design, and it serves as a cornerstone of the Jewish community in the city.

Sri Venkateswara Hindu Temple (Richmond Hill, Ontario)

• This temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in Canada and serves the Hindu community in the Greater Toronto Area. It is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and follows the traditional South Indian style of temple architecture. The temple hosts various religious festivals, cultural events, and educational programs.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Toronto, Ontario)

• The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is an impressive Hindu temple made entirely of hand-carved stone. Located in Etobicoke, a suburb of Toronto, this temple is part of the global network of Swaminarayan temples. It is renowned for its intricate design, serene atmosphere, and cultural exhibitions.

Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara (Surrey, British Columbia)

•  The Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara is one of the largest Sikh temples in Canada and serves the Sikh community in the Greater Vancouver Area. The Gurdwara is known for its grand celebrations during Vaisakhi, offering Langar (community kitchen) to all visitors, and its active role in community service.

Ismaili Centre (Vancouver, British Columbia)

•  The Ismaili Centre in Vancouver is a beautiful architectural landmark that serves the Ismaili Muslim community. It is a place of worship, learning, and community gathering. The building’s design reflects a blend of Islamic and modern architectural elements and is surrounded by serene gardens.

St. Patrick’s Basilica (Ottawa, Ontario)

• St. Patrick’s Basilica is one of Ottawa’s oldest Catholic churches, known for its Gothic Revival architecture. It serves as a place of worship and a cultural hub for the city’s Catholic community. The basilica is also noted for its historical significance and beautiful interior decorations.

Vancouver Bahá’í Centre (Vancouver, British Columbia)

•  The Vancouver Bahá’í Centre is a place of worship and community for the Bahá’í Faith. It is a center for spiritual gatherings, community service, and educational activities. The Centre is open to people of all backgrounds and is known for promoting unity and peace.