Back on the bus, and back towards central Montreal to our next stop, the Hotel-Dieu de Montreal, or hospital. Not that we were specifically to visit the hospital (or need its services!), nor even it's museum, but the garden, which is not normally open to the public (but we have connections!). The hospital was originally staffed by a religious order, although dwindling numbers have resulted in that function being taken over by lay persons (i.e. regular nurses). The nuns, however, do provide for the spiritual side of the hospital patients, especially those on their final journey.
This capsule summary of the history specifically relates to the Ontario branch:- In 1630, Jerome Le Royer de la Dauversier established, in France, an order of Nursing Sisters who would care for the sick, the poor, and the needy. This Order was named the Religious Hospitallers of Saint Joseph. In 1641, Jerome sent a lay woman - Jeanne Mance - to the New World with a group of settlers. She was instructed to care for the sick in the New World. In 1642, Jeanne Mance arrived in Ville-Marie (Montreal) and founded the first Hotel Dieu Hospital. Seventeen years later, three Hospitallers of Saint Joseph were sent from France to help with her work at Hotel Dieu. When Jeanne Mance died in 1673, the Sisters became the new administrators of the Hospital.
The sisters still maintain the grounds, though now with assistance. It is believed this garden layout and style has not changed greatly since its initial construction.
Yes, definitely raining here, and umbrella time. The building in the background is the hospital, and it must be nice for patients and staff to look out on such a pleasant environment.
Another view of the grounds.
There is a meditation chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary located in the grounds. As are many such places, it is unexpectedly quiet inside, especially suited to meditation.
Looking out the chapel door as our party departs. And this is where I left my KPLU cap. Something I didn't realise UNTIL I was back on the bus. Fortunately Gaston was prepared to wait until I retrieved it.
Tall buildings are peeking over the fence of this otherwise secluded garden.
Heading back out onto the street, and modern, downtown Montreal is quite visible. However, the garden provides an excellent view of Mont Royal's cross and radio communications tower. The steel Cross of Montreal was erected in 1924 on the same spot as used by city founder Maisonneuve in 1643. It is illuminated at night, and visible from much of Montreal.
From here we headed off to lunch on rue St. Denis. It was a great lunch, made all the more enjoyable by being inside and watching the rain pour down outside. But eventually we had to leave, and ford the gutters which were running like a small creek. And then it was back to the hotel.
Not a pleasant afternoon to be walking around.
And not pleasant walking around an outdoor jazz festival! I don't know if many of the outdoor events were on; I was content to stay inside and watch.
Gardening Time
