Montreal’s Clock Tower

The Clock Tower, a sailors' memorial

The Montreal audio-guided tour takes you to the end of the quay, towards the silhouette of the Clock Tower, which stands out against the sky. Built in 1922, this forty-five-metre tower is part of the city's historic heritage and was classified a federal heritage building in 1996.

A tribute to lost sailors

Also called the Sailors' Memorial Tower, the tower was first erected as a commemorative monument in memory of the merchant navy sailors who died in action during the First World War. It is therefore approached with respect, as a place of memory. With its clock and its symbolic function, it watches over the Old Port and the St Lawrence.

What there is to see

The tower, elegant and slender, stands at the end of the Clock Tower quay. You can climb its steps to enjoy a fine panorama over the river, Old Montreal and the surroundings. Recalled with gravity, its memorial purpose evokes the sacrifice of the sailors, while offering one of the finest viewpoints of the Old Port.

Practical information

The Clock Tower is at the end of the Clock Tower quay, in Montreal's Old Port. Its surroundings are freely accessible at all hours; the climb of the tower follows its own schedule, whose hours may vary with the season.

When was the Clock Tower erected?

It was erected in 1922 in memory of the merchant navy sailors lost during the First World War. It was classified a federal heritage building in 1996.

Why is it called the Sailors' Memorial Tower?

Because it was erected as a commemorative monument in memory of the merchant navy sailors who died in action during the First World War.