Montréal is in the midst of a creative and cultural metamorphosis that is empowered by the celebrations of its history and a renewed vitality, says Tourisme Montréal’s project manager David Fily.
“The city just turned 375 last year,” he says. “Bursting with innovative ideas and major revitalization projects, entrepreneurs, chefs, artists and designers are all contributing to its transformation and making it ever more attractive and fun.”
Here are a few of the new and major attractions and exhibitions to see this year:
“Aura” This grandiose, innovative project presented by the Notre-Dame Basilica sheds new light on its history and architecture. A path of lights illuminating the basilica’s works of art, an immersive sensory experience in the heart of Notre-Dame and a three-act multimedia spectacle are part of the project.
The Montréal Observation Wheel Atop the wheel at more than 18 stories high, visitors have panoramic views of Bonsecours Island in Old Montréal. It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. with cabins that are air conditioned in the summer and heated in winter. Group packages are available at a 10 percent discount.
Inauguration of Fort Ville-Marie The first French settlement was built to shelter Montréal’s founder Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, nurse Jeanne Mance and 50 settlers who established Ville-Marie in 1642. The Pointe-à-Callière Museum is restoring the fort and making this unique piece of the city’s history accessible once again.
“Living Connections: Illumination of the Jacques-Cartier Bridge” This interactive installation lights up the landmark bridge in simultaneous celebrations of last year’s 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation and 375th anniversary of the city.
“Cité Mémoire: Travel Back in Time” Important historical moments are highlighted in 22 projections on Old Montréal’s historical building walls, streets and trees. A free outdoor multimedia show is screened every night starting at dusk. Audio is available in four languages French, English, Mandarin and Spanish with the free app.
To learn more, email Fily or visit mtl.org.
Top photo: “Cité Mémoire: Travel Back in Time”
Photo by Jean-Francois Lemire, shootstudio.ca