Church of the Madonna della Difesa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of the Madonna della Difesa |
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Church of the Madonna della Difesa
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| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Roman Catholic |
| Leadership | Archdiocese of Montreal |
| Year consecrated | 1919 |
| Status | Operational |
| Official name: Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Défense National Historic Site of Canada | |
| Designated: | 2002 |
| Location | |
| Location | 6800, avenue Henri-Julien Montreal, Quebec, Canada |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Roch Montbriant Guido Nincheri |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Architectural style | Romanesque |
| Completed | 1919 |
The Church of the Madonna della Difesa is a beautiful Catholic church located in the Little Italy area of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Its name means "Our Lady of Defense" in Italian. This church was built by Italian immigrants, especially those from a region in Italy called Molise. They wanted to remember a special event: the appearance of the Madonna (Mary, the mother of Jesus) in a place called La Difesa in Molise.
The church was designed by Roch Montbriant and a Canadian artist named Guido Nincheri. It has a Romanesque style, which means it looks like old Roman buildings. The church opened its doors in 1919.
About the Church
The Church of the Madonna della Difesa is known for a few special things. It has a large cupola (a round dome-like roof) and a unique brick front. But what really makes it famous are the amazing frescos (wall paintings) inside, all created by Guido Nincheri.
Amazing Art Inside
One of the most famous frescoes inside the church shows a historical moment: the signing of the Lateran Accords. This important agreement, signed by Benito Mussolini (who was Italy's leader at the time), helped create Vatican City as an independent state. It also settled a big disagreement between the Catholic Church and the Italian government. This painting was made before World War II.
Outside the church, there's a statue that remembers "victims of all wars." It's a way to honor everyone who has suffered in conflicts.
A Special Place in Canada
In 2002, the Church of the Madonna della Difesa was named a National Historic Site of Canada. This means it's a very important place in Canadian history. A special plaque was put up in 2005 to mark this honor.
The church is located at 6800 Henri-Julien Avenue, right on the corner of Dante Street. You can easily get there by taking the metro to the Jean-Talon or Beaubien stations. This church serves the oldest Italian community in Canada, showing its deep roots in the area.
Currently, three priests serve at the church. They are all part of the Priestly Fraternity of the Missionaries of St.Charles Borromeo, a group of priests dedicated to their mission.
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The apse, which is the rounded end of the church.
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A look at the beautiful interior of the church.
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The transept crossing, where the main parts of the church meet.
