Centennial Flame

The Centennial Flame, in Ottawa

The Centennial Flame is a monument symbol of the unity of Canada, a flame burning above a fountain, on Parliament Hill. The Ottawa audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this commemorative fire, lit for the centenary of the Confederation.

The fire of the unity of Canada

The Centennial Flame is a true symbol for Canada: this monument represents the unity of the country through a flame that burns permanently above a fountain, at the entrance of Parliament Hill. It was lit for the first time at the end of 1966, to mark the centenary of the Canadian Confederation, celebrated in 1967. Around the basin appear the coats of arms of the provinces and territories of the country, recalling the union that forms Canada. A place of memory and national pride, the Centennial Flame has become a must-see meeting point and a strong symbol of the identity and the cohesion of Canada, at the foot of the Parliament.

What to see

You admire the flame burning permanently above a fountain surrounded by the coats of arms of the provinces and territories, a monument lit in 1966 for the centenary of the Confederation, at the entrance of Parliament Hill. The Centennial Flame symbolises the unity of Canada. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Centennial Flame lies at the entrance of Parliament Hill, in the heart of Ottawa, reachable on foot and by public transport. It is an open-air monument, freely accessible at all times. You discover it as soon as you arrive on Parliament Hill.

Why was the Centennial Flame lit in Ottawa?

It was lit at the end of 1966 to mark the centenary of the Canadian Confederation, celebrated in 1967; this monument, surrounded by the coats of arms of the provinces and territories, symbolises the unity of Canada.

Where is the Centennial Flame?

At the entrance of Parliament Hill, in the heart of Ottawa, in Canada.