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The Three Watchmen: Guardians of Ottawa

A bronze tribute to Indigenous heritage in the heart of Ottawa, symbolizing guardianship and the enduring spirit of Canada's First Peoples.

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The Three Watchmen, a striking bronze sculpture by Haida artist James Hart, stands near the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa. These figures, inspired by Haida tradition, symbolize protection and watch over the city's cultural and political heart.

A brief summary to The Three Watchmen

  • 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1N 9N4, CA
  • +1613-990-1985

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the Byward Market to experience local food and shopping.
  • Take time to read the nearby plaques that explain the sculpture's significance and the Haida culture.
  • Explore the nearby National Gallery of Canada to see more Indigenous art and learn about Canadian art history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Byward Market Square, walk southeast on George Street. Continue until you reach Sussex Drive, then turn right. The Three Watchmen will be on your left, at the intersection of Sussex Drive, Murray Street, Saint Patrick Street, and Mackenzie Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    Take OC Transpo bus routes that serve the downtown area, such as routes 1, 2, or 7. Get off at the Rideau Centre stop or the Atwater stop. From there, walk towards Sussex Drive. Walk north on Sussex Drive, and you will find The Three Watchmen at 380 Sussex Dr. A single fare on OC Transpo is approximately $3.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber. Enter '380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4' as your destination. The cost may vary based on your starting location and the time of day. A short trip within downtown Ottawa will likely cost between $10 and $15.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available on adjacent streets. The National Gallery of Canada's parking garage is reserved for visitors and costs $2.75 per half-hour, up to a maximum of $14. Street parking is also available in the Sandy Hill residential area. Check for hourly limits.

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Discover more about The Three Watchmen

Located in Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market, The Three Watchmen is a powerful tribute to Canada's Indigenous heritage. Created by Haida artist James Hart, the 16-foot tall bronze sculpture depicts three figures watching for both physical and spiritual threats. Cast in 2010, the sculpture overlooks the National Gallery of Canada, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, and various government buildings, symbolizing the intersection of culture, religion, and governance. The Three Watchmen are inspired by the traditional watchmen figures often found on totem poles in Haida villages. These figures served as protectors, guarding against danger from both the natural and supernatural realms. Hart's sculpture embodies this spirit of guardianship, representing the enduring connection of Indigenous peoples to the land. The sculpture's location near important Canadian institutions adds another layer of meaning, highlighting the ongoing relationship between the Haida Nation and the Canadian state. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the sculpture up close via a walking path. The surrounding area, with its bustling market and historic landmarks, provides a rich cultural context for understanding the significance of The Three Watchmen. The sculpture serves as a reminder of the diverse stories that shape Canada and invites reflection on the nation's past and present.

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