Go to content

Here’s why the Mount Royal Cross has turned purple

Here’s why the Mount Royal Cross has turned purple
Adobe / Adobe

If you've looked up at Mount Royal in the past few days, you may have noticed the iconic cross glowing purple instead of its usual white.

The reason? It’s a longstanding tradition observed following the death of a pope. The Mount Royal cross is illuminated in purple to signify the passing of Pope Francis.

Typically lit in white, the cross will remain purple until a new pope is elected by the Vatican.

Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on Monday at his residence within Vatican City in Rome, Italy. 

Subscribe to our newletter!
By subscribing, I agree to receive communications by email from Cogeco Média and its affiliates, including news, updates, activities and contests. You can unsubscribe at any time by using the link at the bottom of our emails or contacting us via our Privacy Policy. Please note, however, that we may still continue to send you service-related and other non-commercial communications. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

You might also like

Lately in The Beat 5@7

Should Kids Choose Their Own School? A Social Worker Weighs In
Cat’s Hot Takes on How to Improve Montreal
Montrealers Share the Weirdest Rules They Had Growing Up!
Do Opposites Really Attract in Relationships? This Survey Says YES!
Meghan says NO to going to this first date!
Natasha Hall wraps up your entertainment news of the week
Millennial Parents Are Bringing Back the ‘90s Summer!
Your Neighbour's Out of Town—Would You Dive Into Their Pool?
Is It Just Cat… or Has Food Lost Its Flavour?!
Hanorah Talks Growing Up In Montreal & Jazz Fest Performance with Cat!
Does Getting a Puppy Affect Your Relationship?
Streaming will resume following advertisement.
The Beat of your Workday with Meghan Kelly
Live