Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré
Church Major Quebec pilgrimage basilica near the St. Lawrence
The Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré near Quebec City is a major pilgrimage church known for its large sanctuary, devotional mosaics and annual religious gatherings; visitors arrive for services and architectural detail.
The Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is a Roman Catholic national shrine and pilgrimage basilica on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, Canada. The site has been a focus of devotion and pilgrimages centered on Saint Anne for several centuries.
The complex includes a large basilica building from the early 20th century featuring mosaics, stained glass and numerous ex-voto offerings left by pilgrims reporting healings. Pilgrims come for prayer, liturgies, and devotional rites, especially around the feast of Saint Anne.
The basilica is located in the municipality of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, approximately 30 to 35 km northeast of downtown Quebec City along the St. Lawrence River.
- Pilgrimage history: Pilgrimage to this site dates back to the 17th century and it remains a major Canadian Catholic shrine dedicated to Saint Anne.
- Building and art: The current basilica building dates to the early 20th century and is notable for its mosaics, stained glass, and ex-voto offerings from pilgrims.
How to Get to Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré #
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré is about a 40-minute drive northeast of Quebec City along Route 138. Regular buses and organised pilgrim coaches serve the shrine from Quebec City in high season.
Tips for Visiting Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré #
- Visit the grotto and the smaller chapels early in the morning to avoid coach groups that arrive mid-morning.
- Combine a visit with the nearby Sainte-Anne museum and the coastal road for dramatic sea views.
- Check mass and pilgrimage schedules-major feast days draw large crowds and alter access to parts of the complex.
Best Time to Visit Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré #
Summer months are busiest with pilgrims; late spring and early autumn are good for quieter visits and favourable weather.
Weather & Climate near Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré #
Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -17°C to 24°C. Abundant rainfall (1199 mm/year), wettest in July.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -7°C and lows of -17°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -5°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (129 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (124 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm).
