Place Victoria

In 1813, a bustling hay market filled the space where Place Victoria now stands. Originally called Place des Commissaires, it served as a vital link between Montreal’s city center and surrounding farms. Horses and cattle-drawn vehicles were the primary mode of transportation. Hay was essential. Place Victoria, as we know it today, emerged from this humble beginning. Fast forward to 1860. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, visited Montreal. The square was renamed Place Victoria in honor of Queen Victoria. A statue of the young queen, crafted by Marshall Wood, was unveiled in 1872. She holds a laurel wreath and wears a crown adorned with fleur-de-lis, a nod to the French heritage of British monarchs. Place Victoria has seen many transformations throughout the years. It has been a lush garden, a parking lot, and now a modern urban square. Today, Place Victoria seamlessly blends historical elements with contemporary design. The square features a striking Art Nouveau metro entrance, a gift from Paris. This entrance, designed by Hector Guimard, is the only authentic Parisian Art Nouveau station outside of Paris. It stands as a testament to the collaboration between French and Canadian engineers during the construction of the Montreal metro. Another artistic gem within Place Victoria is the Tai Chi Single Whip sculpture by Ju Ming. This modern piece adds a dynamic element to the historical backdrop. Place Victoria, in the heart of Montreal’s International Quarter, continues to evolve. Yet, it retains echoes of its rich past, from its days as a hay market to its royal namesake.