Travel in Style

Then And Now: 5 Canadian Landmarks

Then And Now: 5 Canadian Landmarks

Photography, courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, 1893

Travel in Style

Then And Now: 5 Canadian Landmarks

Canada, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is adorned with beautiful landmarks that have stood the test of time, bearing witness to the nation's journey through history.

From coast to coast, these iconic Canadian landmarks tell stories of resilience, innovation and the enduring spirit of people.

From humble beginnings to their present-day status as symbols of national pride, these are just a few of the breathtaking places Canada has to offer.


The CN Tower: Then

 

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Photography, Robert Taylor, Stirling Canada, 1973


The original plans for the CN Tower were conceived in 1968 when the Canadian National Railway proposed building a large television and radio communication platform to serve the Toronto area. The plans kept evolving over the next few years, and construction began on February 6, 1973.


The CN Tower: Now

 


For 32 years, the CN Tower held the record for the tallest free-standing structure from 1975 to 2002, when it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa (UAE). A signature of the Toronto skyline and a popular tourist destination, it was also named one of the modern Seven Wonders of the World by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1995.


Chateau Frontenac: Then

 

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Photography, courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, 1893


Opened in 1893, this historic hotel in Quebec City boasts a grandiose 18-floor structure with a 79.9-metre (262-foot) height. It was built as part of an 1870s restoration project that aimed to restore the capital to its former 17th-century look.


Chateau Frontenac: Now

 


Today, Chateau Frontenac is a must-see destination for sightseeing in Quebec City and offers its guests luxurious rooms and breathtaking views.


Notre-Dame Basilica: Then

 

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Image Robert Auchmuty Sproule, McCord Stewart Museum, 1828


The primary construction of this minor basilica of the Catholic Church took place between 1824 and 1829, and the project was finalized in 1865. The church's interior is considered one of the most dramatic in the world and a masterpiece of Gothic revival architecture.


Notre-Dame Basilica: Now

 


The Notre-Dame Basilica adds European charm to Montreal's Old Port. You can visit it for sightseeing or attend one of its iconic events, such as the Aura Experience by Moment Factory.


Parliament Hill: Then

 

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Photography Samuel McLaughlin, Library and Archives Canada, 1863


Built in the years between 1859 and 1876, Parliament Hill was designed in a stunning Gothic Revival style by architect Thomas Fuller. Parliament Hill's impressive architecture features ornate spires, intricate stonework, and a prominent Peace Tower that soars into the sky.


Parliament Hill: Now

 

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Photography, courtesy of Parliament of Canada


Today, visitors can explore its grand halls, attend parliamentary sessions, and take in panoramic views of the city from its sprawling lawns, making it a must-see destination for tourists.


The Empress Hotel: Then

 

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Photography, R6, State and Private Forestry, Forest Health Protection, 1930, flickr.com


This historic landmark, with its iconic Edwardian architecture and signature ivy-clad façade, has welcomed guests from around the world since its grand opening in 1908. Over the decades, the hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries, earning its reputation as a symbol of hospitality and refinement on Canada's West Coast.


The Empress Hotel: Now

 


Visitors can indulge in the hotel's renowned afternoon tea, stroll through its manicured gardens, or simply marvel at its regal presence against the backdrop of Victoria's vibrant waterfront, making it a cherished destination for travellers seeking a taste of old-world charm.
 

 

 

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Travel in Style

Then And Now: 5 Canadian Landmarks