Frequently Asked Questions
Why sponsor a stone?
Sponsoring a stone means becoming a guardian of heritage. Your gesture contributes to
the preservation of an iconic of Quebec and Canadian monument, witness to nearly two centuries of history. Sponsorship allows you to associate your name,
that of a loved one or even an inspiring message to the facade of a stone, which will then be visible though augmented reality. This is a unique and modern way
to leave your mark on a historic project.
How do I sponsor a stone?
Choose the stone that inspires you, add your personalized message (name, tribute, or inspirational thought) and proceed with the donation. The stone will then be bound to your message and can be viewed in augmented reality via our app. Each
contribution directly supports the Basilica's restoration and the preservation of it's heritage.
of his heritage.
What will my donation be used for ?
Your donation directly funds the restoration work of the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal. This work, estimated at over $75 million, includes the reconstruction of the exterior masonry, the preservation of the interior decoration and the conservation of the archives. In order to ensure the preservation of these ancient and unique elements, the expertise of skilled craftspeople is required to carry out the work.
What is the current status of the restorations?
The work began in 2020 and will continue for several more years in order to ensure the Basilica's continued existence. Several sections of the masonry have already been restored, while efforts continue to preserve the interiors decorations. The Basilica receives no government assistance: every donation is essential to the progress of this large-scale project.
What is the objective of the project?
The goal is to ensure the long-term viability of Montreal'sNotre-Dame Basilica, a national historic site, architectural gem, and witness to generations. By participating, you are supporting an important project that combines heritage, technology and digital arts, while contributing to the mission of a non-profit organization
dedicated to its preservation.
Can I sponsor a stone and dedicate it to someone or to someone's memory?
Yes. You can personalize your stone with a name, an inspiring message,
or a dedication in tribute to a loved one. This message will be visible though augmented reality, thus creating a symbolic and lasting link between your gesture and
the Basilica.
Can a company sponsor a stone?
Yes. A company can personalize its stone with a name, a message, or a dedication honouring a loved one. However, it cannot be a message carrying a commercial aspect nor one whose purpose is to directly promote a product or service. This message will be visible in augmented reality, thus creating a symbolic and lasting link between your gesture and the Basilica.
Is it possible to own an actual stone?
No. Sponsorship is symbolic: you associate your name or your message, which will be visible though augmented reality, to one the Basilica's stones. This gesture does not imply a right of ownership over the chosen stone. Sponsorship contributes to preserving the integrity of the monument and to ensuring compliance with heritage conservation standards.
What does the technological experience consist of?
Each sponsored stone is associated with a personalized message, which is inscribed virtually. You will be able to view your stone and your message via an augmented reality application, designed in collaboration with experts in digital arts. This innovative experience makes your contribution tangible, interactive, and personal.
What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality is a technology that merges the virtual and the real. Unlike virtual reality, which immerses you in a completely artificial world, augmented reality uses your phone's camera to add digital objects directly into your usual environment.
By analyzing the floor or surfaces around you, your device is able to “place” a 3D model in your room. You can then walk around it, enlarge it, or move it as if it were a physical object in your home.
The augmented reality experience uses your phone's native technologies to ensure maximum accuracy and complete security for your camera data.
How do I launch the AR experience?
Tap the “Explore” button. A window will open to confirm that you are going to use an augmented reality feature to position an object in your environment
Why does the app ask for access to my camera?
This is an essential step! To superimpose the virtual object in your real room, the app needs to “see” your environment through your phone's camera. Accept the camera access permission when it appears on the screen.
How do I position the object in my space?
Once the camera is active, the app needs to analyze the floor or surface (tab, desk) in front of you. Follow the instructions, slowly move your phone from left to right, aiming for a flat, well-lit area. Dots or a visual indicator will appear to show you that the space has been detected.
The object has appeared but it is tiny, what should I do?
Don't panic! By default, the object may appear at a reduced scale to fit the screen.
- To enlarge it: Use two fingers on the screen and “pinch” outwards (classic zoom gesture). You can enlarge the object up to 500% on Android and 1000% on iPhone!
- To move it: Hold your finger on the object and drag it to reposition it wherever you want in the room.