Saint-Sulpice Seminary

Saint-Sulpice Seminary is a limestone building in Old Montreal with a U-shaped layout and a neoclassical entrance marked by Ionic columns. The structure contains classrooms and facilities arranged within walls that have sheltered Catholic education since its completion.

Construction took place between 1684 and 1687 under François Dollier de Casson, making it the oldest structure in Old Montreal still serving its founding purpose. The seminary marks the beginning of Catholic priestly education in French colonial North America.

The seminary preserves the legacy of the Society of Priests of Saint-Sulpice through its ongoing educational mission for Catholic clergy. Visitors sense how the space continues to reflect the spiritual purpose for which it was founded centuries ago.

The seminary is located on Notre-Dame Street West and welcomes visitors through organized tours that can be scheduled in advance. Contact the site directly to arrange your visit and learn what time slots are available.

The seminary houses North America's oldest public clock, installed in 1701 with a dial crafted in Paris and later gilded by members of the Notre-Dame Congregation. This timepiece remains a working example of 18th-century craftsmanship still visible to visitors today.

Location: Ville-Marie

Official opening: 1687

Part of: Vieux-Séminaire-de-Saint-Sulpice Heritage Site

Website: https://universculturelsaintsulpice.ca/sites-historiques

GPS coordinates: 45.50389,-73.55694

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42