Hello From Montreal One Final Walk Through Downtown Admiring Its Architectural Beauties
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Hello From Montreal: A Final Stroll Through Downtown's Architectural Wonders
Summary
My thrilling long weekend in Montreal has come to an end. After a delightful day of exploring and an exquisite dinner at Nuances at the Casino de Montreal, followed by a breathtaking pyro-musical show at La Ronde, I was ready for a final morning of discovery. With just a few hours left before my train back to Toronto, I embarked on one last urban adventure to soak in Montreal’s architectural grandeur.Final Morning Exploration
With suitcases packed, I set off with my camera and backpack, grateful for a noon checkout that allowed for a leisurely exploration. I began my walk on Rue De La Gauchetire Ouest, where historic buildings line the street. My first stop was St. Patrick's Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a designated Canadian heritage site. Its rich history and majestic interior, featuring 150 oil paintings and the renowned "St. Patrick's Chimes," make it a must-see.
Discovering Dorchester Square
Continuing west, I arrived at Dorchester Square, formerly Dominion Square. This vibrant public space, once a cemetery for cholera victims, now hosts monuments like the Boer War memorial and statues of Scottish poet Robert Burns and former Canadian Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Its south side, Place du Canada, is the annual site of the Remembrance Day ceremony, honoring Canadian war heroes.
Architectural Gems Surrounding the Square
The north of Dorchester Square features the Dominion Square Building, home to Montreal Tourism's headquarters. To the east stands Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, inspired by Rome's St. Peter's Cathedral. Built between 1870 and 1894, it showcases the church’s pre-Quiet Revolution influence, complete with copper statues added in 1900. Recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2006, it has undergone extensive restoration.
Further north is the Sun Life Building, completed in 1931. Notably, during World War II, its basement vaults safeguarded England’s Crown Jewels and Bank of England gold bullion. Once the largest building in the British Empire by square footage, it remains Montreal’s 17th highest structure.
West of Place du Canada
St. George's Anglican Church, a Gothic Revival marvel, boasts a remarkable double hammer-beam roof and exquisite wood carvings. Despite initial concerns about bell noise, a set of 10 harmonious bells was installed in 1901. The church’s clock, installed amid fears of inaccuracy, remains impressively precise, serving as a vital post during an era when wristwatches were rare.
Opposite the church is Windsor Station, a Romanesque revival masterpiece designed by Bruce Price, known for the Chateau Frontenac. From its 1889 opening to its expansion in 1916, it played a key role in transcontinental rail travel. It’s now a venue for major events, including a renowned beer festival.
Strolling Down Rue St-Catharines
Moving northeast, I ventured down Rue St-Catharines, Montreal’s bustling shopping corridor, lined with stores and venue to the Montreal Jazz Festival. The street is rich in historic sites, such as the Neo-Gothic Christ Church Cathedral from 1858, which ingeniously sits atop an underground mall built to stabilize it against sinking.
Further along, Phillips Square marks the city’s retail origins, highlighted by Henry Morgan's store, now "The Bay." The square features a monument to King Edward VII and a distinguished Birks jewellery store.
A Last Glimpse
As my departure approached, I made a final stop at St. James United Church. Known as the "Cathedral Church of Methodism," this 1889 Gothic-style church was concealed by storefronts for over 78 years. Recently revealed, it’s undergoing renovations.
Reflections on Montreal's Architectural Splendor
Reflecting on this journey back to the hotel, I marveled at Montreal's rich architectural tapestry?"from the grandeur of Old Montreal and Notre-Dame Basilica to the historic commercial centers on Rue St-Jacques. Montreal is a treasure trove for architecture and history enthusiasts.
As I settled into my train seat back to Toronto, I realized my brief visit was just a glimpse. Montreal's diverse attractions promise countless more explorations on my next visit.
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