Place Jacques Cartier

Place Jacques-Cartier, lively heart of Old Montreal

The Montreal audio-guided tour takes you to Place Jacques-Cartier, a small pedestrian square in the heart of Old Montreal. Before becoming this lively place, the site had a quite different vocation.

From the Vaudreuil castle to the college of Montreal

In 1723, the Vaudreuil castle stood here, the former residence of the governor of New France. In 1773, the governor no longer residing there, the city installed the college of Montreal, the city's first secondary school. The college stayed there until the fire of 1803, which destroyed the palace. The square was then laid out and took its present name.

What there is to see

The square, sloping towards the Old Port, is lined with terraces, stalls and restaurants. At its top stands the Nelson Column, one of the oldest commemorative monuments in the city. Enlivened by street performers and florists, Place Jacques-Cartier is one of the liveliest and most photographed places of Old Montreal.

Practical information

Place Jacques-Cartier is in Old Montreal, between the city hall and the Old Port, in the Ville-Marie borough. It is freely accessible at all hours, although it is on a slope. The terraces and shops keep their own hours.

What was on Place Jacques-Cartier in the past?

The Vaudreuil castle stood there, residence of the governor of New France, which then housed the college of Montreal until the fire of 1803.

What monument is on the square?

At the top of the square stands the Nelson Column, one of the oldest commemorative monuments in Montreal.