Martyrs' Shrine, National shrine in Midland, Canada
Martyrs' Shrine is a national shrine in Midland, Ontario, featuring multiple church buildings and monuments set across 75 acres of landscaped grounds. The site overlooks the Wye Valley in Ontario's Georgian Bay region and forms a substantial complex for visitors.
The shrine was founded in 1925 to commemorate eight Jesuit missionaries who worked among Indigenous peoples during the early French colonial period. This establishment was part of a broader movement to recognize the work of these early religious leaders.
The church interior displays traditional Indigenous design elements, particularly a ceiling shaped like an inverted canoe. This architectural choice brings together European church building traditions with the local culture of the region.
The site is seasonally accessible, with closures during autumn and winter due to structural considerations and relic relocation. Plan your visit during warmer months when all areas are open to the public.
The shrine houses the preserved remains of three canonized saints: Jean de Brébeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, and Charles Garnier. These three served in 17th century missions, and their presence draws pilgrims to the location.
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