Jacques Cartier square (Place Jacques-Cartier) is a favorite spot for citizens and tourists from all over the world. It is a popular tourist and historic center in Montreal, as there are many hotels and restaurants, souvenirs and local goods shops. In summer, Jacques Cartier square turns into a pedestrian zone. Here, you can listen to street musicians, get a portrait from a street artist for a reasonable fee, and familiarize yourself with the works of artists of different styles. For Christmas, the square is furnished with decorative illumination, creating a festive atmosphere. Day and night, life is in full swing here, and every traveler will find something to their liking. Besides, you can walk to the Old Port of Montreal from here.

The square appeared about 150 years ago. Before the square took the spot, the castle of Governor-General Phillippe de Rigaud de Vaudreuil had stood here. When the castle was severely damaged in a fire in 1803, it was decided to demolish it and turn the place into a square. Historians found proof that long before the governor’s castle, people had gathered here to discuss various municipal issues.

The new square was called New Market Place. The New Market also appeared here. In 1809, Nelson’s Column, the oldest monument in Montreal, was erected here. It is a tribute to the English admiral and hero who defeated Napoleon’s fleet at Cape Trafalgar. They decided to erect the monument right when the news of Nelson’s death reached the Canadian coast.

In 1847, the square was renamed in honor of the Canadian explorer Jacques Cartier. A famous maritime explorer, he discovered Canada (along with John Cabot and Samuel de Champlain). Considered the father of the colonization in North America, he made three expeditions and was the first European to describe the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and its shores and the land he called the Country of Canadas.

Near the square, you can find Champ-de-Mars Park (the ruins of the Montreal fortress are still preserved), the Montreal City Hall, the streets of Notre-Dame and Commune.