Canadian Parliament Buildings

The Canadian Parliament Buildings are located on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, and serve as the seat of the country's Parliament. Despite the fact that much of the Parliament Buildings were destroyed in a fire in 1916, the Gothic aura of these structures still exists, albeit with many later additions.

Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the capital of the United Provinces of Canada in 1858, but the little town required more room for a House of Commons and Senate. Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, lay the cornerstone of the Canadian Parliament Buildings overlooking the Ottowa River several years later, in 1860.

The structures were to be created in the Gothic Revival style, inspired by the recently finished British Parliament in London. Each of the competition winners was given a block to construct: a Center Block and two administrative blocks. Built using local resources, the Victorian Gothic Parliament Buildings featured pointed arches, spires, and rubble-course stonework. The legislature first convened on June 6, 1866, just in time for Confederation in 1867.

Today, Canada's accessible Parliament Buildings serve as a lasting national emblem. They've been updated over the years to accommodate more office space while preserving vital public landmarks. The grounds are dotted with monuments of significant political personalities who have shaped Canada and give a pleasant open place in which to observe the Gothic architecture. When the buildings aren't being restored, you can take a tour of the Center Block, making sure to stop at the lovely library.

Location: Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada