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Central Chambers: A Glimpse into Ottawa's Past

Explore Ottawa's architectural heritage at Central Chambers, a National Historic Site showcasing Queen Anne Revival design in Confederation Square.

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Central Chambers National Historic Site, located at the corner of Elgin and Queen Streets in Ottawa, is a striking example of Queen Anne Revival commercial architecture. Built in 1890-1891, it stands as a testament to Ottawa's late Victorian era and its architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

  • 40 Elgin St, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1P 1C7, CA

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a less crowded, more intimate experience.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial for a full day of exploration.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and surrounding landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Confederation Square, walk east along Queen Street towards Elgin Street. Central Chambers is located on the northeast corner of Elgin and Queen, directly across from the National War Memorial. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    Take OC Transpo bus routes that stop at the Elgin Street and Queen Street intersection. From the bus stop, Central Chambers is a short walk away, located on the northeast corner. A single ride fare is $4.00, payable by card or cash.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Ottawa. A short taxi ride from downtown Ottawa to Central Chambers will cost approximately $11-$16, including the base fare of $4 and a per-kilometer charge of $1.86. Traffic conditions may affect the final fare.

Unlock the Best of Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

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Discover more about Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

Central Chambers, a National Historic Site of Canada, stands proudly at 40 Elgin St, Ottawa, marking the intersection of Elgin and Queen Streets. This six-story building, designed by J.J. Browne, showcases the Queen Anne Revival style, popular from the 1870s to the early 1900s. Originally built for Edward Seybold and James Gibson's dry goods firm, the Central Chambers later housed the National Capital Commission. The building's architecture features asymmetrical facades, steeply-pitched rooflines, and ornamented details. Red brick, terra cotta panels, and metal accents enrich its texture and color. Large windows maximize daylight and commercial display space. Designated a National Historic Site in 1990, Central Chambers is recognized for its architectural significance. It frames Confederation Square, near the National War Memorial, making it a key landmark in Ottawa. While the interior was renovated in the 1990s, the facade remains a reminder of Ottawa's historical and architectural evolution.

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