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Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery

2.2
·540 reviews·Montréal, Canada

A sprawling historic cemetery featuring impressive funerary art, a replica of Michelangelo's Pietà, and a peaceful, park-like atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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One of our oldest trees.
© Mathieu Dupuis

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling historic cemetery featuring impressive funerary art, a replica of Michelangelo's Pietà, and a peaceful, park-like atmosphere.

2.2
(540 reviews)

"A vast and historically rich site, appreciated for its serene atmosphere and impressive funerary art."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many paths. :athletic_shoe:

Check Hours Before Visiting

Confirm Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours online to ensure access during your planned visit. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Replica of Michelangelo's Pietà

Replica of Michelangelo's Pietà

Chapel

A striking replica of Michelangelo's masterpiece, offering a moment of reflection and artistic appreciation.

War Graves Section

War Graves Section

Various sections

A solemn tribute to fallen soldiers, featuring numerous military headstones and a poignant reminder of sacrifice.

Architectural Mausoleums

Architectural Mausoleums

Throughout the cemetery

Explore grand mausoleums and ornate family crypts showcasing diverse architectural styles and historical significance.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Vast Grounds

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery is a sprawling historic site. Plan your visit by checking the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours online and consider using a Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map to locate specific sections or loved ones. Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the grounds involves significant walking. Reddit

Understanding Cemetery Services

While the cemetery offers burial and memorial services, some visitors have reported communication challenges regarding inscriptions and plot maintenance. If you are arranging services or seeking to locate a deceased at Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery, be prepared for potential delays in responses and consider visiting in person if possible. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter atmosphere for reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery in Montreal, Québec. The grave of Rene Angélil, Celine Dion's manager/husband.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many paths. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Hours Before Visiting

Confirm Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours online to ensure access during your planned visit. :clock1: Reddit

reddit.com

Can you walk through Mont Royal cemetery on closed days?

reddit.com

Any cemeteries/graveyards with no gates that are good for a spooky late-night stroll?

Bring a Map

A Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map is helpful for navigating the grounds and finding specific burial sites. :world_map: Reddit

Respectful Conduct

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit to honor the resting places. :pray: Reddit

reddit.com

Headstone Preservation in Montreal

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is vast; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its many paths. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Check Hours Before Visiting

Confirm Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours online to ensure access during your planned visit. :clock1: Reddit

Bring a Map

A Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map is helpful for navigating the grounds and finding specific burial sites. :world_map: Reddit

Respectful Conduct

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit to honor the resting places. :pray: Reddit

Inquire About Services

If seeking information on Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery burials or services, contact administration in advance. :envelope: Reddit

What Travellers Say

2.2
(540 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery is a vast and historically rich site, appreciated for its serene atmosphere and impressive funerary art, including a replica of Michelangelo's Pietà. However, some visitors have reported significant issues with cemetery administration regarding plot maintenance and communication, leading to disappointment for those seeking timely service. Reddit

"A large cemetery of the Catholic faith in the "rural" tradition favoured in the Americas. Nice, calming, but such a design creates considerable open space. Indeed, time is taking its toll, but the descendents of the deceased should embrace their family and the resulting duties. On a Sunday visit in Spring 2024, I saw caring families out in the cemetery taking on the task of cleaning and revitalising the family plot. Ah, get to it. This is the only way."

Alan Walmsley

"My experience with the personnel at this cemetery is terrible. It's been 6 months since my mom's passed and I have paid for all the services, engraving, all that is left is the photo. Impossible to reach the person I've dealt with, leave emails, message,s personally showed up at the front desk to leave a message to the person. Reception said this is very odd and would send an email to that person copying me. Guess what? No email, no response from anyone. Can't call anyone because nobody answers the phone, waited 90 minutes on hold. YOU ALL SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES."

Anthony De Cotiis

"After posted 2 bad reviews, I finally can say, that my problem was solved in 1 week, after I met with the Director of sales.
He truly took the matter seriously and a beautiful monument was installed in a few days before the 1 year anniversary, as was planned."

Yana Popova

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Impressive monuments
Artistic replicas

What People Dislike

Administrative issues
Grounds maintenance
Communication delays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery is accessible by public transport and car. Several bus routes serve the area, and there is parking available on-site. Checking a local transit app or map service before your visit is recommended. Reddit

Yes, public transportation is available. Bus lines frequently stop near the cemetery, making it a convenient option for visitors. Consult the STM (Société de transport de Montréal) website for the most up-to-date route information. Reddit

Parking is available within the cemetery grounds. The main entrance usually provides access to visitor parking areas. Reddit

While some main paths are paved, the cemetery is large and hilly. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate all areas. It's advisable to stick to the main roads for easier access. Reddit

From downtown Montreal, you can take a bus or a taxi/rideshare. The bus routes are generally efficient and cost-effective. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery is typically free. You do not need tickets to walk the grounds. Reddit

The cemetery's hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or call ahead for the most current Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the cemetery is generally open on weekends. Weekday visits might offer a quieter experience. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for visitors to explore the grounds of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery. Reddit

While not always advertised, inquire at the administration office about potential guided tours or historical information sessions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

To locate a deceased at Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery, you can inquire at the administration office. They may have records or a system to help you find the burial location. Online resources like 'Find a Grave' can also be helpful. Reddit

The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to appreciate the art, architecture, and serene atmosphere. Consider bringing a Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map to navigate. Reddit

Yes, the cemetery features a replica of Michelangelo's Pietà and numerous elaborate funerary sculptures and mausoleums. Reddit

The condition of the grounds can vary. Some areas are well-maintained, while others may show signs of wear or neglect, particularly with overgrown grass in certain sections. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always good practice to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during services or family visits. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities within Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery. Visitors should plan to eat before or after their visit. Reddit

Picnics are generally not permitted as it is a place of rest and remembrance. It's best to refrain from eating on the grounds. Reddit

Yes, the surrounding neighborhoods offer various dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Reddit

While you can bring water, it's advisable to avoid bringing food for consumption on the premises to maintain the solemn atmosphere. Reddit

You'll find a range of cuisines in the vicinity, catering to different tastes and budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The cemetery offers many picturesque spots, including the replica Pietà, grand mausoleums, and tree-lined avenues. Look for interesting architectural details and historical markers. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but always be mindful of privacy and respect for those visiting loved ones. Avoid photographing private memorials without permission. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots. The golden hour can highlight the textures of the monuments. Reddit

Drone photography is typically prohibited in cemeteries to ensure peace and respect. Always check local regulations. Reddit

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is suitable. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the mausoleums, while a prime lens can focus on intricate details. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery can be a unique educational outing for families, offering a quiet space to discuss history and art. While not a playground, the expansive grounds provide room for respectful exploration. Encourage children to look for interesting statues and architectural details on the mausoleums. It's a good opportunity to teach about remembrance and local history. Remember to emphasize the importance of quiet and respectful behavior throughout the visit. Reddit

Consider bringing a Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map to make the exploration more structured. Pack water and snacks, but be mindful that eating on the grounds is generally discouraged. The cemetery's serene atmosphere can be a powerful way to introduce children to concepts of legacy and the passage of time in a gentle manner. Reddit

🏛️ History and Art Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and art, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery is a treasure trove. The variety of architectural styles in the mausoleums and monuments offers a visual timeline of Montreal's past. The replica of Michelangelo's Pietà is a must-see for art lovers. Reddit

Take your time to wander through different sections, observing the craftsmanship and the stories each monument tells. Researching prominent figures buried here beforehand can enrich your visit. The cemetery's design itself, in the rural tradition, is also a subject of historical interest. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solitude Seekers

If you're looking for a peaceful and contemplative environment, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery offers a tranquil escape. The vastness of the grounds and the quiet atmosphere make it ideal for solitary walks and reflection. Reddit

Find a quiet bench amidst the trees or near a notable monument to simply sit and absorb the serene surroundings. The cemetery provides a unique space for introspection away from the city's hustle and bustle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Walk Through History and Art

Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery, founded in 1854, is one of the largest cemeteries in North America and a significant historical landmark. It's designed in the 'rural cemetery' tradition, featuring rolling hills, mature trees, and winding paths that create a park-like atmosphere. This design was intended to offer a peaceful and beautiful place for remembrance, moving away from the crowded churchyards of the past. Visitors often come for the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery photos opportunities, drawn to the blend of nature and elaborate funerary art. Reddit

The cemetery is home to a remarkable collection of sculptures, monuments, and mausoleums, reflecting various artistic styles and historical periods. The most prominent artistic feature is the replica of Michelangelo's Pietà, housed within a chapel, offering a poignant artistic and spiritual focal point. Beyond this, the intricate carvings, statuary, and architectural designs of the family crypts and mausoleums are a testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras. Exploring these structures provides a unique glimpse into the lives and legacies of Montreal's prominent families. Reddit

For those interested in genealogy or military history, the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery burials section includes a significant number of war graves, honoring soldiers from various conflicts. The sheer scale of the cemetery means that finding specific individuals can be a task, and resources like Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery find a grave databases or inquiring at the administration are often necessary. The cemetery's serene environment, despite some areas showing signs of wear, continues to make it a place of quiet contemplation and historical discovery. Reddit

Navigating Visitor Experiences and Services

Visitor experiences at Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery can be mixed, with many appreciating the peaceful ambiance and historical significance, while others have encountered challenges with administrative services. The cemetery's vastness means that exploring it thoroughly requires time and comfortable footwear. Visitors often seek to locate a deceased family member or admire the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery photos of the impressive monuments. Reddit

Some reviews highlight issues with communication and service delivery, particularly concerning plot maintenance, inscriptions, and the installation of monuments. While the cemetery is a place of remembrance, ensuring the upkeep of graves and fulfilling contractual obligations for services like engraving has been a point of contention for some families. The administration has, in some instances, resolved these issues after persistent follow-up or intervention from management, suggesting that proactive communication and clear expectations are key when engaging their services. Reddit

Despite these challenges, many visitors find solace and beauty in the cemetery's grounds. The presence of families actively tending to their plots indicates a community that values the space. For those planning a visit, checking the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery hours and utilizing a Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery map are practical steps to enhance the experience. The cemetery remains a significant site for both personal reflection and historical exploration in Montreal. Reddit

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