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The Connaught Building: Ottawa's Tudor-Gothic Masterpiece

Discover the Connaught Building in Ottawa, a Tudor-Gothic architectural gem and National Historic Site, blending history and beauty in the heart of the city.

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The Connaught Building, a National Historic Site in Ottawa, is a stunning example of Tudor-Gothic architecture. Built between 1913 and 1916, it originally housed government offices and a customs warehouse and is now home to the Canada Revenue Agency. Its architectural style, reminiscent of Hampton Court Palace, makes it a unique landmark in the city.

A brief summary to The Connaught Building

  • Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, CA

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the building's peaceful surroundings before the area gets crowded.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture, especially during the golden hour when the sunlight enhances its features.
  • Explore the nearby ByWard Market for local food and artisanal goods after visiting the building.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Connaught Building is located near the ByWard Market and Parliament Hill, making it easily accessible on foot. From Parliament Hill, walk east towards the Ottawa River and the ByWard Market. The Connaught Building will be on your left, near the U.S. Embassy. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Ottawa or Parliament Hill, take OC Transpo bus routes that head towards the ByWard Market. Alight at the Rideau Street stop and walk north towards Sussex Drive. The Connaught Building will be on your right. A single fare on OC Transpo is CAD 3.75.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Ottawa. A short taxi ride from Parliament Hill or downtown Ottawa to the Connaught Building will cost approximately CAD 11-28, including the base fare of CAD 4 and a per-kilometer charge of CAD 1.86. Note that fares may vary depending on the company and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about The Connaught Building

The Connaught Building, located in downtown Ottawa, stands as a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Constructed between 1913 and 1916, this imposing structure was originally built to house the Customs Department and Ottawa's Customs Examination Warehouse. It was named in honour of H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught, who served as Canada's Governor General from 1911 to 1916. The building's design, a blend of Tudor-Gothic and Beaux-Arts styles, was the vision of David Ewart, Chief Architect of the Department of Public Works. Ewart aimed to create a distinctive architecture for the capital that was compatible with the Parliament Buildings. The Connaught Building features castellated turrets, textured stonework, and Tudor-arched openings. The lower storey is faced with granite, while the remainder is constructed with Nepean stone and Wallace stone edgings. Inside, the building boasts concrete floors with hardwood finishes, marble hallways, and staircases. Today, the Connaught Building is home to the Canada Revenue Agency. Its location, near Major's Hill Park, Parliament Hill, and the Château Laurier, makes it a prominent landmark in Ottawa. The building was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990, recognizing its architectural significance and its role in Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier's vision for a more handsome national capital.

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