The cities of Eastern Canada are filled with history, and their architecture showcases the rich culture of the area, combining influences from various periods and regions. For example, Ottawa is home to ornate buildings in the Neo-Gothic style, while you can see the influences of French architecture in Quebec City.
There are so many architectural gems in this region to captivate enthusiasts that it can be a challenge to decide which destinations to prioritize. Thankfully, we’re here to help you plan your trip. Here are our Top 5 Must-See Architectural Marvels of Eastern Canada
1. Notre Dame-de-Québec BasilicaNo trip to Quebec City is complete without seeing the Notre Dame-de-Quebec Basilica!
Originally constructed in 1633, the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica is the oldest church in Canada and was the first church in Canada to be assigned the rank of minor basilica. Over the course of its long history, the basilica has been ravaged by fire and rebuilt multiple times. It is the final resting place or Francois de Laval, the first Bishop of Quebec and has been declared a national historic site of Canada.
When you approach the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica (Our Lady of Quebec City) you’ll be immediately struck by the unique, asymmetrical steeples, an architectural quirk that lends this landmark a unique character. Constructed in the Neoclassical style, the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica boasts a beautiful Neo-classic façade and many fascinating carvings. Perhaps the most memorable feature of the cathedral is the enchanting golden canopy above the choir that draws the eye heavenward. You’ll be stunned by the intricate beauty of the sculpted angels that seem to glow with golden light.
Another highlight of this building is the Holy Door, which is the sole Holy Door to be found outside Europe. While Holy Doors are normally sealed, the Quebec City Holy Door is currently open until Dec 8, 2024!
2. Quebec City Parliament Building
Another popular destination in Quebec City, the Parliament Building of Quebec is a grand structure built in the Second Empire style and composed of two side wings and an impressive 52-metre central tower. It has been the home of the National Assembly of Quebec since 1884, though construction wouldn’t be completed until 1886. It is Quebec’s oldest historic site and has been declared a national historic site.
The most striking feature of the parliament building is not the various offices of parliament, but the many statues and heraldry that decorate the exterior walls. All total, there are 26 statues adorning the front wall of the parliament building representing the history of Quebec. As you walk around the wall, admiring the craftsmanship of these pieces of art, it is like you can see the story of the province unfolding before your eyes.
The beautifully landscaped grounds of the parliament building are ideal for a leisurely stroll, where you can admire the Fontaine de Tourney with its 43 water jets and lovely sculpted figures.
3. House of Commons West Block
If you’re visiting Ottawa, don’t miss the chance to see the House of Commons in the West Block of Parliament Hill.
This stone building was originally completed in 1865 and currently houses the interim House of Commons Chamber while the Centre Block undergoes renovations.
Visitors to the West Block are struck by the imposing Victorian High Gothic style of the building. With its three sweeping towers, asymmetrical design and fascinating carvings, the House of Commons resembles a European castle. Gargoyles and grotesques lurk in corners, waiting to be discovered by keen-eyed visitors. The interior of the building is also dazzling, with an impressive glass ceiling that covers the temporary House of Commons chamber and courtyard.
4. National Gallery of Canada
When traveling to Ottawa, you’ll also want to take the opportunity to visit the National Gallery of Canada. One of the largest art museums in North America, the National Gallery of Canada is a work of art in and of itself.
Designed by Moshe Safdie, Ottawa’s National Gallery of Canada opened in 1988 and boasts over 93,000 works of art in its permanent collection.
The profile of the southern portion of the National Gallery of Gallery was designed to resemble a cathedral and the building’s three-tiered glass cupola stands out on the Ottawa skyline. Formed out of various glass triangles and rectangles, the glass cupola is a wonder of geometric shapes that fills the structure with light during the day and transforms the building into a beacon at night.
Inside, visitors can relax in the glass-covered, landscaped courtyard, admire the beautiful Michael Sonja Koerner Family Atrium with its glass-bottomed pool and explore the many exhibits. This is a spot that will truly soothe an art lover’s soul.
5. Notre-Dame Basilica
Nestled in the Old Montreal district in Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica faces the Place d’Armes square and welcomes more than 11 million visitors every year. It was the largest church in North America when it was completed and remained so for 50 years.
Considered a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, the Notre-Dame Basilica combines traditional features of the Gothic style, such as its iconic twin towers, with unique features such as its dramatic colours. The vaults are a striking deep blue, and the sanctuary is filled with azures, purples, silver and gold. Visitors can easily lose themselves in studying the ornately decorated interior, which is filled with wood carvings and exquisite stained-glass windows that depict the religious history of Montreal.
The Notre- Dame Basilica is also home to an impressive organ built by Casavant Freres and offers various musical programing, including the electrifying Aura Experience which combines orchestral music with a captivating light show.
