Confederation Square — Attraction in Ottawa

Confederation Square (French: Place de la Confédération) is an urban square in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and is considered the second most important ceremonial centre in Canada's capital city, after Parliament Hill. Roughly triangular in area, with Canada's National War Memorial at its centre and the Valiants Memorial at its periphery, the square is bounded by Wellington Street to the north and branches of Elgin Street to the east and west.

The square was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984. Confederation Square's importance is due not only to its central location in Ottawa and its status as a rare Canadian example of a City Beautiful-inspired square, but also arises from the landmark buildings that frame the square: the Château Laurier, the Senate of Canada Building, the National Arts Centre, the Central Chambers, the Scottish Ontario Chambers, the Central Post Office, the PMO and the East Block. Part of the square crosses over the Rideau Canal, itself a National Historic Site of Canada and a World Heritage Site.

A triangular plaza once located approximately at the site of today's Confederation Square was (originally) named after Governor General Connaught. Before 1910, today's Plaza Bridge over the Rideau Canal had been two separate bridges which were replaced at the time by a single bridge under which rail traffic would pass from the new Union Station past the (also new) Chateau Laurier. This work was finished by December 1912 and the location was named "Connaught Place" on March 24, 1913.

Two prime ministers had promoted the beautification of the capital city, Wilfrid Laurier from 1896-1911 and William Lyon Mackenzie King whose first term began in 1921. By 1927, a commission for improvements named the Federal District Commission was formed out of an earlier effort called the Ottawa Improvement Commission. King invited French architect Jacques Gréber to help with the design for a square which would include a war memorial.

The area at this time also had five notable structures, most which have been standing for decades. The old post office was located where the current war memorial stands, the Russell House hotel was on the southeast side of Sparks and Elgin, the Russell Theatre (adjoining the hotel) was on the corner of Queen and Elgin, the old City Hall was on the east side of Elgin between Queen and Albert, and Knox Presbyterian Church at Elgin and Albert, on the site of today's National Arts Centre.

King had plans involving widening Elgin Street even by 1927, with hopes of bringing emphasis to the Parliament Hill. The hotel was destroyed by fire on April 14, 1928. The Russell Theatre, which was also burnt on that date got expropriated for demolition in order to bring about these plans. The Federal District Commission later expropriated the hotel's site. The church was expropriated November 20, 1930. City Hall burned down March 31, 1931.

In 1937, Greber visited Ottawa but disagreed with King on the placement of the war memorial, for fear of traffic problems.

Ottawa's former Central Post Office had been constructed in 1876. The old post office was demolished in (May and) June 1938 in order to build the square.

Knox Presbyterian Church had also been demolished on June 1938. The Royal Bank of Canada building (once James Hope and Company) at the northwest corner of Elgin and Sparks had been removed (for the new Post Office). By October, the War Memorial had been erected and the Plaza Bridge had been widened. Work was underway for the building of the new Central Post Office. Elgin Street was widened in April 1939. and Confederation Square continued to be landscaped while post office was being completed. By this time, the square was renamed Confederation Square for the National War Memorial. It wouldn't be until June 1969 that the National Arts Centre would be opened. In May 1939, King George VI came to visit Ottawa and formally unveiled the new...

Confederation Square, located in downtown Ottawa, serves as a central hub of national remembrance and civic activity. This roughly triangular plaza is bordered by Wellington Street to the north and branches of Elgin Street to the east and west. At its heart stands the National War Memorial, a poignant tribute to Canadians who have served in armed conflicts. 

Established between 1899 and 1939, Confederation Square transformed from a bustling commercial district into a ceremonial space, embodying the principles of the City Beautiful movement. This urban design philosophy aimed to introduce beautification and monumental grandeur in cities. 

The square is framed by an eclectic mix of landmark buildings that contribute to its historic and architectural significance. Notable structures include the Château Laurier hotel, the Senate of Canada Building, the National Arts Centre, and the Central Chambers. Each of these buildings adds to the square’s unique character and reflects different periods of Ottawa’s development.  

Beyond its architectural appeal, Confederation Square serves as a gathering place for both locals and visitors. Its open space invites leisurely strolls and moments of reflection amidst the bustling city. The square’s proximity to other attractions, such as Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Ottawa’s rich history and cultural offerings.

In recognition of its historical and cultural importance, Confederation Square was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984. Whether you’re drawn by its monuments, surrounding architecture, or its role as a focal point in the nation’s capital, Confederation Square offers a meaningful experience that encapsulates...

This is the spot you got to be at if you're visiting, or a photographer looking to capture some wild-angled photos of beautiful Ottawa. A latest smart-phone, and you can capture surround-shot, virtual shot etc.,

Best time to be at: During the sunset(blue hour). Have a tripod ready if you're a pro. Otherwise, arrive a little early so your photos aren't badly lit. Summer time is great here, as the place is packed with people(mostly tourists). Grab a sandwich, sit, relax and enjoy your surrounding. The place can provide you with many opportunities such as, showcasing your shuffle dance or flash-mob skills. No one is going to bother you here, not even cops unless you're doing something against the law. In short, a fun place with many...