The Institute of the Misericordia Sisters is a reminder of the important presence of religious communities in 19th-century Montreal life. The Sisters of the Misericordia established themselves at the intersection of the East End’s working-class neighbourhoods and the Quartier Latin for the purpose of helping single mothers and orphans.

The Institute holds an important place in the built landscape of René-Lévesque Boulevard and De La Gauchetière Street with its commanding presence, its classical greystone architecture and its courtyards with large trees flanking the chapel. This hospital complex is part of a larger institutional ensemble that includes the former École des hautes études commerciales de Montréal business school (now the Gilles-Hocquart Building that houses the Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec) opposite Square Viger, the former Viger Station-Hotel, and the former Académie Marchand, which now belongs to UQAM. The wings and pavilions of this large convent and hospital complex were built between 1853 and 1940.

The seven buildings of the complex, the oldest of which (pavilions D, E, F) were built between 1853 and 1884, facing René-Lévesque Boulevard. While the older wings are in the neo-classical style, the more recent ones respect contemporary architectural styles. Photo: Google; Editing: City of Montreal.

Since 2012, the non-profit organization Quadrilatère de la Miséricorde, supported by the Quatuor Quartier Latin and present on the Table de concertation du Faubourg Saint-Laurent, is working on a redevelopment project for the hospital site that would include several tiers: housing for families, a residence for men aged 55 and over, a museum, community spaces and artists studios. This non-profit organization is recommending that the City acquire the complex and reserve it for this purpose.

Starting in 2019, the City of Montreal is conducting a study of the site’s potential for conversion and acquisition. This study includes an audit of the building, a review of soil contamination, a statement of heritage interest, an assessment of archaeological potential and financial analyses. The objective is to identify potential new uses and an implementation strategy, including acquisition by the City. In the summer of 2021, the City presents its vision for the site: a mixed-use redevelopment project that includes a homeless shelter, student housing, public housing and the construction of a new 17-storey tower (and the demolition of part of the complex). The building, which is owned by the Quebec government, is expected to be transferred to a private developer to complete this large project.

In December 2022, it was announced that the complex would be put up for sale.

Over the years, Heritage Montreal has submitted several letters, briefs and resolutions concerning various surplus hospital buildings in Montreal, including the former Hôpital de la Miséricorde.

Héritage Montréal continues to follow the case closely and to advocate with public authorities for the site to be requalified and for the heritage values of the site to be respected.