With the unveiling of a new pavilion for Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal, designed by Lemay, a new chapter has begun for visitors to Quebec’s most-visited religious and cultural site in the form of a four-storey building that welcomes over two million visitors annually.

This latest addition, part of the site’s ongoing master plan since 2000, marks an evolution that embraces heritage and a forward-looking vision.

The new pavilion features a striking new bell tower, a vertical landmark housing a 62-bell carillon which forms an experiential and musical instrument of the Oratory, and a symbolic and auditory guide for visitors.

Gabion walls, constructed using stone excavated from the site, filter natural light into the spaces. Terraced rooftops offer breathtaking new views of the dome and the city beyond.

Paved surfaces have been replaced with green spaces, reducing heat island effects and enhancing biodiversity. High-performance insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and ventilation systems reduce the building’s carbon footprint while maintaining optimal indoor comfort.

As visitors move through the pavilion, they encounter a series of curated spaces , like the cafeteria, that offer panoramic views.

A rhythmic sequence of skylights and illuminated ceilings enhances a natural flow through the space.