Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica - Ottawa ON

The interior of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica in Ottawa, Ontario, is one of the most stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Canada.

Located across from the National Gallery of Canada, the basilica is the oldest and most prominent Roman Catholic church in Ottawa. The most striking feature is the star-filled blue ceiling, with gold stars painted on a deep cobalt background. The rib-vaulted ceiling mimics medieval European cathedrals.

Slender pointed Gothic columns, painted in faux-marble blue and gold, line the nave and rise into pointed arches, drawing the eye upward. The church is filled with 19th-century stained glass windows, mostly made in Montreal, depicting biblical scenes, saints, and the Virgin Mary.

I normally only have one image per post, but I thought I would be remiss if I didn’t show you the amazing Apse (east end) of the Cathedral with its High Alter. The elaborate, hand-carved wooden details are the work of Philippe Parizeau and other artisans in the 19th century. The high altar and pulpit are ornately carved and gilded, with religious iconography in a Baroque Gothic style.

Notre Dame of Ottawa - Apse with High Alter