Place Ville Marie : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 16 Jun, 2023
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Are you looking for an exciting travel destination that offers incredible historical and cultural insights? Then look no further than Place Ville Marie in Montreal, Canada! Located in the center of the city, Place Ville Marie is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a major landmark in Canadian history, as it was the first skyscraper built in Canada. It has been as one of the top tourist attractions in the city due to its unique design and incredible view of the city. In this blog post, we will provide interesting facts and information about Place Ville Marie, as well as some great travel tips and insights. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Place Ville Marie
1. Place Ville Marie was designed by the renowned French architect I.M. Pei and is the tallest skyscraper in Montreal.
2. It is interconnected with twelve underground pedestrian walkways known as the “Underground City”, which is one of the largest underground complexes in the world.
3. Place Ville Marie is recognized as the first skyscraper to have a hole running through it. This hole is used to collect rainwater from the roof, which is then diverted to the Montreal Underground drainage and sewer systems.
4. There is a public roof terrace located on the 54th floor of Place Ville Marie, offering spectacular views of the city.
5. Place Ville Marie is also home to the Montreal World Trade Centre, the head office of the Montreal Experess newspaper, and the headquarters of the Quebecor Media Group.
6. In 2020, a bronze statue of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was placed in the atrium of Place Ville Marie to commemorate his incredible legacy.
History & Information About Place Ville Marie
Place Ville Marie is an office and retail complex located in the heart of downtown Montreal, Quebec. It is one of the most recognizable and iconic landmark buildings in the city, and is recognized as an important part of the city’s skyline. It was developed between 1962 and 1967 by the Canada Permanent Trust Company in collaboration with the same firm responsible for creating the iconic Empire State Building in New York. The impressive 44 storey multi-use skyscraper was constructed in a mixed Commercial, International, and Modernist style of architecture, which has proven to be very successful in Montreal over the years.
Place Ville Marie is home to several major office tenants including Club de Hockey Canadien, Rio Tinto Alcan, Ernst & Young, Aviva Canada, University of Montreal, as well as a host of other companies and organizations. The complex includes an underground city shopping mall, a movie theater, an observatory, and numerous restaurants. The building also houses the corporate headquarters of the Bell Canada Enterprises. The office tower is one of the tallest structure in Canada and is integral to the skyline of the Montreal skyline.
Place Ville Marie has become a symbol of the development and progress of the city of Montreal over the years and is recognized by Montrealers as an iconic landmark that is home to some of the top names in Montreal business and history.
Travel Guide For Visiting Place Ville Marie
Ville Marie is a vibrant and beautiful destination located in Montreal, Quebec. This area of the city includes the downtown district, many charming neighborhoods, and the iconic landmark of Mount Royal. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a few days, there’s so much to explore in this stunning part of Canada. From historic architecture and culture to great restaurants and shops, there’s something for everyone in Ville Marie. Here’s your guide to help you make the most out of your trip.
Things to see in Ville Marie – Montreal, Quebec
Ville Marie has so many sights to explore. Some of the must-see attractions in the area include:
• Notre-Dame Basilica: This stunning Neo-Gothic church is a must-see and is home to some of the most beautiful stained glass in the world.
• Mount Royal: You can’t miss the iconic Mount Royal, the center of Montreal’s skyline. Explore the area and take in the breathtaking views.
• St. Lawrence River: Take a stroll along the river and admire the natural beauty and heritage sites.
• Old Montreal: Take a walk through the historic streets of Old Montreal and admire the colorful cobblestone alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant restaurants.
• Montreal Botanical Garden: Relax and take a walk through the sprawling botanical gardens and admire the lush and fragrant plant life.
Where to eat in Ville Marie – Montreal, Quebec
Ville Marie is home to some of the best dining spots in Montreal, Quebec. Some of the local favorites include:
• Toqué!: This restaurant offers one of the most unique and delicious dining experiences in the city, with inventive dishes and classic French-Canadian cuisine.
• L’Assommoir Gastropub: Enjoy a rustic atmosphere and farm-to-table cooking at this chic gastropub.
• Joe Beef: Experiment with seasonal ingredients at this upscale French-inspired spot.
• Le Muscadin: Enjoy a romantic night out at this cozy bistro with French-Canadian cuisine.
• Pizcorpio: Satisfy your cravings for traditional Italian cuisine at this popular spot.
Things to do in Ville Marie – Montreal, Quebec
Ville Marie is full of things to do. Some of the top activities include:
• Latin Quarter: Spend the day exploring the Latin Quarter and soaking up the lively atmosphere and distinct culture of this vibrant neighborhood.
• Underground City: Get lost in the labyrinth of underground walkways and explore the shops and restaurants.
• Notre-Dame Basilica: Attend a live performance or take a tour around the stunning basilica.
• Quartier des Spectacles: Experience the best of live entertainment with shows, festivals, and more at this entertainment district.
• Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History: Learn about the history of Montreal and discover ancient artifacts at this fascinating museum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Place Ville Marie
Q. What is Place Ville Marie?
A. Place Ville Marie is a 16-story modern office complex in Montreal, Quebec. It is a mixed-use complex located in the heart of the district, featuring offices, retail shops, restaurants, parks, public areas, an underground shopping concourse, and a high-end hotel.
Q. Where is Place Ville Marie located?
A. Place Ville Marie is located at 462, Ste Catherine Street West in the heart of Montreal’s downtown district.
Q. What is the history of Place Ville Marie?
A. Place Ville Marie was originally built in 1962, and has since seen several renovations and expansions. It is a major landmark in Montreal and a widely recognized symbol of the city’s skyline.
Q. What facilities are available at Place Ville Marie?
A. Place Ville Marie offers a range of facilities. These include offices, retail shops, restaurants and cafes, parks, public areas, an underground shopping concourse, a hotel, conference and event spaces, and more.
Q. What is the best way to get to Place Ville Marie?
A. Place Ville Marie is easily accessible by car, bus, and metro. There is convenient parking available nearby, as well as multiple bus routes and a metro station right outside the complex.