Who was this Admiral Nelson staring down from his lofty perch in Montreal? Nelson’s Column stands proudly in Place Jacques-Cartier. It commemorates the British Admiral Horatio Nelson. Erected in 1809, Nelson’s Column is a testament to a victory won and a hero lost at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Interestingly, this monument isn’t just a symbol of British triumph. It represents a shared sentiment among Montrealers, both British and French. They collectively funded this tribute, united in their disapproval of Napoleon and the French Revolution. The column itself is made of grey limestone, while the original statue and medallions were crafted from a unique material called Coade stone. This artificial, weather-resistant stone was a groundbreaking invention of its time. Sadly, time and the elements took their toll. The original Nelson statue was moved to the Montreal History Museum for preservation, replaced by a replica atop the column. So, as you admire Admiral Nelson’s Column, remember the unique cross-cultural collaboration that brought it to life. Consider the innovative material of its creation and the fascinating journey of its original statue from the open air to the museum’s protective embrace.
Scala Santa Yes
“The staircase that Jesus ascended to Pilate’s praetorium” is how some describe the Scala Santa. It is a precious reminder