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Parliament Hill

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Parliament Hill
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Gothic Revival towers, lawns and river views frame the working center of Canadian parliamentary life, now reshaped by major construction.

Guide's tip. Stand at the Centennial Flame and compare the restored West Block with Centre Block behind its construction perimeter. Centre Block remains closed for rehabilitation, while current public tours use other parliamentary buildings and require a separate reservation. Do not treat the grounds as a static monument; security routes can change. Walk 0.33 miles down toward the eight Ottawa Locks and Bytown Museum.

On a walking tour. Stop 3 of 10 on the walking tour Ottawa, river, Parliament and national museums, every stop on a map in walking order.

about 60 min for a visit

The story

Parliament Hill brings Gothic Revival architecture, public lawns, river views and the daily work of Canadian democracy into one place. Centre Block and the Peace Tower remain the familiar image, but Centre Block is closed for a major rehabilitation. Construction fences, security routes and temporary entrances are part of the present-day story.\n\nStand by the Centennial Flame and compare Centre Block with the restored West Block. The buildings present continuity, yet Parliament keeps moving through temporary chambers, tours and active debate. Monuments on the grounds also show which people and events were chosen for public memory.\n\nPublic tours currently use other parliamentary buildings and require separate reservations. Schedules can change with proceedings and security needs. Check the official visitor site before arrival and follow posted routes rather than relying on an old map.

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