Imagine being at the heart of Canada’s busiest inter-city rail service area. That’s right here at Montreal Central Station. Nearly 11 million rail passengers use this station every year. This makes it the second-busiest train station in Canada after Toronto Union Station.
Montreal Central Station stands as a testament to Montreal’s rich history. It embodies a blend of architectural styles. The station’s story began long before its official opening in 1943.
Do you know about the Canadian National Railway’s struggle? In the early 20th century, they had scattered terminals all over Montreal. Imagine transferring a train between Bonaventure Station and Tunnel Station. It would need a detour to Hawkesbury Ontario.
The solution? A central station. Montreal Central Station became the answer. Construction started in 1926 but faced delays due to the Great Depression. Finally, it opened on July 14 1943. It was a pivotal moment for Montreal’s urban development.
Montreal Central Station’s design is a mix of Art Deco and the International style. John Schofield, CNR’s architect-in-chief, oversaw the design. John Campbell Merrett designed the large concourse. Large windows illuminate the space. The concourse was once cluttered. Over time, ticket counters were moved. This created more space for the crowds.
Look around. Notice the bas-relief friezes on the interior and exterior. These Art Deco details add to the station’s character. Charles Comfort designed the east and west interior walls. They depict Canadian life, arts, and industry. The lyrics of “O Canada” are included. They are in French on the east side. They are in English on the west side. Fritz Brandtner created stone reliefs on the station’s north exterior wall. They depict Mercury, Apollo, and Poseidon.
Montreal Central Station has 14 underground tracks. Seven stairwells provide access. Five have escalators. The station’s underground location presented operational challenges. To avoid smoke, early trains used electric locomotives. The change of traction occurred outside the city center.
Interestingly, a pipe bomb exploded here in 1984. It killed three people and injured 30 more. The bombing was allegedly a protest against Pope John Paul II’s visit to Canada.
Consider the urban development around Montreal Central Station. Over time, buildings have gradually surrounded it. In 1948, ICAO built its headquarters over the station. In 1959, the Queen Elizabeth Hotel was built.
Montreal Central Station connects to the Underground City. Tunnels lead to Place Ville-Marie and the Bonaventure metro station. Les Halles de la Gare is a shopping and restaurant complex within the station.
Today, Montreal Central Station remains a vital transportation hub. It serves Via Rail, Amtrak, and Exo commuter trains. The Réseau express métropolitain also uses the station. The station offers services to Quebec City, Windsor, and even New York City.
So, as you stand here at Montreal Central Station, remember its history. Remember its architecture. Think of its connections to the city and beyond. It is more than just a station. Montreal Central Station is a gateway to Montreal and Canada.