Saint-Sulpice Seminary (Montreal) facts for kids
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The Saint-Sulpice Seminary is a very old and important building located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is the second oldest building in Montreal! In 1980, it was named a National Historic Site of Canada because of its special history. You can find it in the Old Montreal district, right next to the famous Notre-Dame Basilica, facing Place d'Armes. The seminary is a beautiful, U-shaped building that looks like a grand palace.
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About the Saint-Sulpice Seminary
A seminary is a special school where people study to become priests. The Saint-Sulpice Seminary was started in 1657 by a group of priests called the Society of Priests of Saint Sulpice. They have owned the building ever since it was built.
A Look at the Seminary's History
Construction of the seminary began in 1684. It was led by François Dollier de Casson, who was in charge of the Sulpician priests at the time. The main building was finished in 1687. However, some parts, like the famous clock, were added later and completed by 1713. The seminary was built to train priests who would work in communities. It also helped with mission work among the local Indigenous peoples in New France.
The Oldest Clock in North America
The front of the building has a beautiful clock near the top. This clock was built and put in place in 1701. The clock's face was made in Paris. It was engraved by Paul Labrosse and decorated with gold by the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre-Dame. This clock is one of the oldest of its kind in all of North America!
Exploring the Seminary Gardens
Following an old tradition, the Sulpician priests created a garden near their seminary in the 17th century. They grew fruits and vegetables there. The garden was designed in a French style, popular during the Renaissance. It has a geometric layout with paths, a lawn, and a statue in the middle. These gardens are also among the oldest of their kind in North America.
Famous People Who Studied Here
- James Augustine Healy: He was the first known African-American Catholic priest in history. He later continued his studies at a Sulpician seminary in Paris.
See also
- Saint-Sulpice Seminary (Issy-les-Moulineaux)
