Sainte-Jeanne-de-Chantal Church, Heritage stone church in Notre-Dame-de-l'Île-Perrot, Canada
The Sainte-Jeanne-de-Chantal Church sits on a cliff above the Saint Lawrence River, its tower serving as a navigation aid for river traffic. The structure was built from local fieldstone and includes a stone rectory dating to 1780 that now serves parish administrative functions.
Built between 1773 and 1774, this fieldstone structure was the first public stone building constructed west of Montreal during the seigneurial period. Its construction marked the beginning of stone building in the region and set a pattern for future development.
The interior combines design elements from the Louis XV and Louis XVI periods, with an altarpiece painted in 1790 by artist Louis Dulongpré. These decorations reflect how the community expressed its faith and taste in religious art during that era.
The site sits on a cliff with river views, so dress for changeable weather and wind exposure. Access to the cemetery behind the church requires climbing a grand staircase, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for steps.
Behind the main structure lies Quebec's only terraced cemetery, built between 1951 and 1959 in a distinctive staircase design. This unusual layout makes efficient use of the steep slope and reveals views gradually as visitors climb upward.
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