From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mount Royal Cross.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Mount Royal Cross: A Symbol of Montreal
A historic landmark in Montreal, the Mount Royal Cross offers panoramic views and symbolizes the city's rich cultural heritage.
The Mount Royal Cross, an illuminated monument atop Mount Royal, stands as a powerful symbol of Montreal's history and identity. Erected in 1924, it commemorates the original cross placed by Montreal's founder, Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, in 1643, giving thanks for the colony's survival from a devastating flood. Visible from afar, the cross is a testament to the city's cultural heritage and resilience.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mount Royal Cross
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
8 am-8 pm
Tuesday
8 am-8 pm
Wednesday
8 am-8 pm
Thursday
8 am-8 pm
Friday
8 am-8 pm
Saturday
8 am-8 pm
Sunday
8 am-8 pm
Discover more about Mount Royal Cross
The Mount Royal Cross is one of Montreal's most iconic landmarks, perched atop Mount Royal, overlooking the city. The current steel structure, standing at 31.4 meters (103 feet) tall, was erected in 1924 by the Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste. It commemorates Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve's original wooden cross, which he raised in 1643 to thank the Virgin Mary for saving the Ville-Marie colony from a flood.Over the centuries, the cross has evolved from a simple wooden marker to a steel structure illuminated by lights, visible for miles. The cross is often lit in white, but its colors change for special occasions, such as purple to mark the death of a Pope or red for AIDS awareness. The LED lighting system, installed during a renovation, allows for a variety of colors controlled by computer.Located within Mount Royal Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the area around the cross offers recreational activities and panoramic views of Montreal. Visitors can hike or bike along the Olmsted Trail to reach the cross and enjoy the scenery. The Mount Royal Cross remains a cherished symbol, representing Montreal's rich history, French-Canadian heritage, and enduring spirit.
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Getting There
Walking
From the Mount Royal Chalet, walk northward on the inner loop of Chemin Olmsted. The cross is a short walk from the chalet, approximately 10-15 minutes. The path is well-maintained and offers scenic views.
Public Transport
Take the Metro to Mont-Royal station. From there, take bus 11 (westbound) and get off at the Remembrance/Chemin du Chalet or Lac-aux-Castors stop. Alternatively, on weekends and during the summer, take bus 711. From the bus stop, follow the signs towards the Mount Royal Chalet and then walk to the cross. A single fare for the Metro costs around $3.50 CAD.
Car
Drive to Mount Royal Park via Côte-des-Neiges Road or Park Avenue. There are two parking lots available: one near Beaver Lake and a larger one further up the road. From either parking lot, follow the signs towards the Mount Royal Chalet and then walk to the cross. Parking rates are approximately $4.25 CAD per hour. Note that access to the park by car may be limited, and some roads may be closed to through traffic.
A brief summary to Mount Royal Cross
Use Mount Royal Cross as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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