The Maisonneuve Monument stands at the heart of Place d'Armes in Old Montreal, a small square that makes a natural meeting point for anyone exploring the historic quarter. It honors Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, the founder of the city, and its bronze sculptures turn the monument into a place to linger and look closely.
What to see
The monument's bronze sculptures celebrate the early settlers who arrived with him. Taking time to walk around the base lets you read the figures from several angles, and the details reward a slow look rather than a quick photograph from across the square.
Why it suits a visit
- It is a fitting stop for history lovers who want to connect with the origins of the city.
- The bronze figures and the setting make it a rewarding subject for photographers.
- It sits beside Notre-Dame Basilica, so the two can be seen together in one visit.
- Its location in Old Montreal means cafés, cobbled streets and other historic sites are close by.
Because the square is central, it is easy to combine the monument with a walk through the surrounding streets of Old Montreal. Allow enough time to pause in the square itself, as much of the monument's appeal lies in standing before it and reading its figures in the open air.