If you love learning about the history of a place, you probably make a plan to see all of the most historic sites in the area you are visiting. You probably end up learning a lot about the area in general and its history from this habit.
If you are visiting Canada, and Ottawa specifically in the near future, there are so many great historic sites to see. Whether you are only there for a day, a weekend, or a whole week, there are plenty of things to fill your historic agenda. Here are the best historical sites in Ottawa:
Laurier House National Historic Site
This historic building in Ottawa is the former home of two of Canada’s prime ministers. If you like learning about political history and Canada’s national history, this is a great choice for a visit while you are in the city.
The national historic site is now a museum with tours each day during the summer, and there are other exciting attractions to choose from at the site.
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
This historical landmark is considered the country’s largest and oldest church. The amazing architecture outside is a preview of the gorgeous interiors of Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica. Inside are beautiful carvings and stained glass windows.
Though the cathedral is not offering guided historical tours currently, it is open to the public each day for prayer, and there are masses offered throughout the week.
Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada
This 6-story building has a long history, and was designated a National Historic Site due to its amazing example of Queen Anne Revival style architecture.
If you love seeing old buildings and noticing the contrast of new and old buildings near each other in a city, you will have to check out Central Chambers in Ottawa.
Peace Tower
If the iconic buildings and structures draw you, and you also love the historical value, be sure to visit and grab some pictures of Peace Tower in Ottawa. Peace Tower was built in 1920 to replace Victoria Tower, which burned down in 1916.
Today, you can see the tower, which contains a bell and a clock and is built in a neo-gothic style of architecture.
National War Memorial
The National War Memorial in Ottawa is located in Confederation Square. The Memorial consists of a 70-foot arch as well as a statue, made from granite and bronze.
The memorial is a tribute to all of Canada’s Armed Forces. If you are visiting on Remembrance Day, be sure to bring a poppy to leave at the memorial.
If you get excited by the historical value of a city, these are some of the best historical sites to check out in Ottawa. You might just find that you love the city’s history so much that you want to plan your future and make your own history there and begin browsing Ottawa homes for sale. And what a great city, full of history, to consider for you own home.