Imagining Renaissance - The Montreal of Grandeur

MBG 2022 Provinces Series - Montreal Aug 11-15

Stepping into Montreal is a walk back in time, imagining the renaissance of art prominent long centuries ago. An enclave of historical masterpieces, gallant in beauty and proud in history. Montreal is not just a destination, it is a place of grandeur. 

Montreal captivate me long before I came to Canada and this time finally I know how poor my imagination is. Montreal dazzles every step of the way. The towering pillars that transcend ages are incomparable, and old buildings yellowed and scarred still stand magnificent screaming the greatness of the era they once glorify. 

The legacy of these earliest standing buildings endure the ravage of the changing world, all for us to see and all for us to learn about the history, the people, and the settlement. They stood to tell it all.

Day 1. 

On the long road from Kingston and about 3 hours later, we set foot into another world. Circling around are architectures too gorgeous to behold. Elated and misty-eyed, the tour has to wait. We have to unpack at our hotel room. The road claimed our energy, we needed rest so we can walk the city with all of our vigors. 

The Embassy Suite. 

Matching the grand display of archival architecture in the area, the Embassy Suit didn't fall behind. The facade of the hotel building is a combination of old and new. The intricately designed pillars complimented with beach chairs on the patio screamed two worlds colliding. Amply spaced lobby, huge dining area that housed complimentary drinks, snacks, and breakfast, and helpful staff. 

Our suite is also amazing. We have a large room with a large bed, an ensuite bathroom with our personal jacuzzi, a full-scale kitchen and counter, a living room, and more importantly an office space. It is easily one of the bests hotels we've been to. The downside is the turtle-speed wifi and the absence of a swimming pool. An early morning out of the bed helps fix the slow connection and the personal jacuzzi in our bathroom helps fix those little bumps.

While Gabby imposed a total rest day and a rejuvenating bath on the jacuzzi, Mama and Papa make their way to the bar to grab complimentary drinks. We each had glasses of beer and cocktails, a platter of celery, carrots, and toasted chips. Refreshed and satisfied, we decided to walk around the hotel. Every step takes us to the otherworldly beauty of the buildings around us. We've never been to the cosmopolitan of arts yet, but we are already awe-struck.

Day 2.

The following day is the most exciting day of my life, I will finally see the melting pot of rich architectural and historical buildings. Instead of walking aimlessly, we decided to book a hop on- hop off tour. The tour is booked for 2 days. We agreed on our first ride, we will never get off, and we will take note of places we wanted to explore on foot for the next. The route we follow is the most scenic I had in my entire life.

Hotel Intercontinental.

We passed by Hotel Intercon on our way to the tour bus pick-up point and we couldn't help grabbing pictures at the Parisian-inspired aesthetic hotel lobby.

Old Montreal.

Architectural revival stood proud in old Montreal. Narrow cobblestone streets, lively and charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, it is a historic districts of picturesque buildings.  This is my favorite place in all of Montreal.

Bonsecours Market.

The green dome of the market is visible and enticing and notable from afar while we are on the tour bus.  On closer look, you can tell that the building that was erected in the 1800s is easily one of Montreal's iconic architectural masterpieces.

Hotel Place d'Armes.

We never knew this hotel existed, and we have never done our research quite well. The Embassy Suite is just comparable in terms of price for the accommodation and beautiful facade, but Place D'Armes was built with a historical backbone and that makes the difference. I would love to stay behind the walls that are centuries old the next time we visit. 

Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.

The breathtaking house of the Lord is at the center of Old Montreal. There is construction ongoing on one of the basilica's towers but it did not dim the beauty of the cathedral. Equally spectacular are the intricate works of art and competing displays of colors inside the church. It is one of the most romantic places of worship I have ever laid eyes on, heralded as one of the masterpieces of Gothic-Revival architecture, the active place of worship deserves such recognition. 

Hotel de Ville.

Another handsome masterpiece just a walking distance away downtown.

Place Jacques Cartier.

A spot of music, entertainment, and stories. The plaza comes alive with tourists and locals alike, appreciating peddlers with awesome performances of the song, dance, and exhibitions. 

Old Port.

A nostalgic port tucked a stone’s throw away from downtown, the Old Port is where the festivities are. From the famed Cirque de Soliel, shops, eateries, shows, events, and even cinema watching. Old Port is a must-visit if you are in for a fun time.

Mt. Royal.

It is said that Montreal is a portmanteau of Mount Royal. The imposing mountain has a large cross on top of it, parks, and restaurants. The best view of the city is guaranteed at the height of this mountain. The tour bus takes you there, no problem.

Chinatown.

Stop by Chinatown for my holy grail of souvenir must-haves: a magnet, a shot glass, and one significant artifact. Lunch is enjoyed at a Vietnamese/Cambodian fusion that is too delicious I regret not having the same restaurant in Toronto.

Day 2. 

Once again, we were back on the bus to fulfill the 2nd day of the hop-on, hop-off tour. This time, we will be stopping by the places that interest us the most. Most places visited were the different houses of worship and historic streets.

Fine Arts Museum.

We've never been inside but the facade satisfies us enough with its jaw-dropping details.

A picture with Sir Leonard Cohen.

Hallelujah is a song written by Leonard Cohen, a Canadian singer.

St Joseph Oratory.

Saint Joseph Oratory sits proudly at the top of Mount Royal and is one of Canada's National Historic Sites. The church is the largest in Canada and one of the largest church domes in the world. I felt so little and short while inside. Ambitious and magnificent architectural conception. Nothing but the best for our Lord and St. Joseph.

St James United Church.

A welcoming heritage church at Montreal's downtown core. Music and songs of worship are said to be incessant in this church, children are very much welcome that even a sandbox and a playground is right at the entrance to the church.

Christ Church Cathedral.

The Anglican spiritual oasis is one of the National Historic Sites of Canada. It is a classic example of Gothic Revival Architecture and is located centrally at the downtown core.

The Ring.

The Ring at the Esplanade in the city of Mary is said to be a window that connects Montreal's history to the modern day. The titanic ring looks floating in between buildings and if not, I believe the other purpose would be to open a portal to a new world.

Rue St Jacques.

The street is dotted with banks, insurance companies, and people in awe of its magnificent structures.

Our two and a half days in Montreal abused our legs, we couldn't stop walking, and we couldn't stop looking. No matter how many times we passed by the same street, and see the same building, a pause is warranted, a photo taken twice or thrice I lost count.

Every nook and cranny felt like another dimension. I felt like walking back to some hundred years ago, lost in that moment and never wanting to leave. Montreal is a culmination of grand archival edifices, rich in everything - from stories of the past, the people, the culture, culinary fusions, entertainment, and everything under the sky. Montreal is Magic, and that magic will never be lost in us.