Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church (Quebec City) facts for kids
The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church was a beautiful and historic church located in Quebec City, Quebec. You could find it at 410 Rue Saint-Jean. It was a very important building in the city's history.
History of the Church
The first church building was finished in 1847. But sadly, a huge fire in 1881 destroyed much of Quebec City, and the church was completely burned down.
The church you see today was built in 1884. It was made using seven different kinds of fancy Italian marble! A talented architect named Joseph-Ferdinand Peachy designed it. He used the Second Empire style of architecture, which was popular at the time. The church's front part was inspired by another famous church in Paris, France, called the Église de la Sainte-Trinité.
This amazing church has a very tall spire, which is like a tall, pointed tower, reaching about 73 meters (240 feet) high. Inside, you would find 36 colorful stained-glass windows. There were also dozens of statues and paintings, along with many other beautiful decorations.
Two brothers, Ernest and Gustave Gagnon, were both organists at the church. An organist is someone who plays the pipe organ, a very large musical instrument often found in churches. Ernest Gagnon played from 1853 to 1864, and then Gustave Gagnon took over from 1864 to 1876.
The Archdiocese of Quebec decided to close this church on a day called Pentecost in 2015.
Inside the Church
The inside of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church was just as grand as the outside. It had many special areas and beautiful artwork.
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The Nave, which is the main part of the church where people sit.
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The Sanctuary and pulpit, where services are led.
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The Altar, a central part of the church.
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia de San Juan Bautista (Quebec) para niños
