DK Travel : Montréal and Québec City : Musée Pointe-à-Callière

Musée Pointe-à-Callière

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Ascending like a sentinel from the confluence of the St Pierre and St Lawrence rivers, this National Historic Site honors the founding of the city at Place Royale. Within this landmark of stone and brushed steel are three sections: a chic building constructed on top of the ruins of older structures; the archeological crypt; and the renovated Customs House. A self-guided tour system allows each visitor to explore at their own pace, but guides are employed throughout the site to answer questions. These escorts are accomplished storytellers, bringing the history of the city to life.

Top 10 Exhibits

1. Éperon Building

Architect Dan S. Hanganu designed this edifice to create a building that is an exhibition in itself. The front door marks the spot of the first shelter in Ville-Marie (1642).
2. Tales of a City

One of the most inspired introductions to any museum, this 16-minute voyage through the discovery of Montréal enchants visitors and sets the stage for a memorable visit.
3. First Catholic Cemetery in North America

Residents of the original fortification created a cemetery under Place Royale. When the museum excavated the site, the discovery resulted in this exhibit.
4. Where Montréal Was Born

This exhibition represents more than 600 years of local history, from Amerindian times to the present day.
5. Underground Vaulted Conduit

Montréal’s earliest plumbing and sewer system, dating from the 18th century, can be seen in this network of conduits, beneath a cobblestoned walkway. Another excavation revealed the tiny St Pierre River, now permanently below ground.
6. Models At Your Feet

Virtual technology bridges past with present here. Meet historic figures, hear archeological explanations and view five centuries of artifacts under glass beneath your feet.
7. A Customs House and its Architect

Montréal’s old Customs House, built between 1836 and 1838, is a Neo-Classical building designed by John Ostell, a local architect. It has been carefully renovated to its original state by the museum.
8. Youville Pumping Station Interpretation Center

Across from the museum an old pumping station has exhibits on science and technology.
9. Market Day, 1750

This interactive virtual fresco is set in the archaelogical remains of the main gate that led to the marketplace in 1750. Visitors can bring to life various figures, who emerge from the stores and play out scenes from their lives.
10. Montréal Love Stories

This series of intimate portraits of the city draws on photographs, videos, and first-hand accounts of Montréalers.

Practical Information

One of the best views in all of Vieux-Montréal is available from Café L’Arrivage on the top level of the museum. It serves good but expensive bistro cuisine. 350 Place Royale at rue de la Commune (514) 872 9150 www.pacmuseum.qc.ca Open 10am–5pm Tue– Fri, 11am–5pm Sat–Sun Dis. access Adm $10.00