Peace Tower: A Canadian Icon
Visit the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill for breathtaking views, historical significance, and a moving tribute to Canadian heroes.
Rising 92.2 meters (302 feet) above Parliament Hill, the Peace Tower is a Canadian architectural icon and a powerful symbol of national identity. Constructed after a devastating fire in 1916 that destroyed the original Victoria Tower, it was completed in 1927 as a memorial to Canadians who served and sacrificed during the First World War. Designed in the Victorian High Gothic style by Jean Omer Marchand and John A. Pearson, the tower features intricate stone carvings, including approximately 370 gargoyles, grotesques, and friezes. The Peace Tower houses the Memorial Chamber, a solemn space dedicated to Canadians who have died in conflicts around the world. Stained glass windows and stone quarried from European battlefields evoke remembrance. The chamber contains Books of Remembrance listing the names of fallen soldiers. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of Ottawa and the surrounding area. The tower also features a carillon of 53 bells, a gift from the United Kingdom, which chime every weekday. During the summer months, the carillon plays from 11 am to noon, while from September to June, the concerts are from noon to 12:15 pm. The four clock faces on each side of the tower bear a striking resemblance to those on Big Ben in London. Currently, the Centre Block is undergoing extensive renovations, but visitors can still experience the Peace Tower through guided tours of the Parliament Buildings. Tickets are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis at 90 Wellington Street, across from Parliament Hill.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure your free tickets for the Peace Tower tour, especially during peak season.
- Check the schedule for the carillon performances and plan your visit accordingly.
- Take time to explore the Memorial Chamber and reflect on the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Ottawa from the observation deck.
A brief summary to Peace Tower
- Ottawa, Downtown, Ontario, K1A 0A9, CA
Getting There
-
Walking
From anywhere on Parliament Hill, the Peace Tower is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk towards the Centre Block building, and the tower will be directly in front of you. Enter through the visitor entrance.
-
Public Transport
Take OC Transpo's O-Train Confederation Line (Line 1) to Parliament Station. From the station, walk north towards Parliament Hill. The Peace Tower is a short walk from the station. OC Transpo bus routes also serve Parliament Hill. A single fare is around $3.70.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near the Parliament Hill gates on Wellington Street. From there, it's a short walk to the Peace Tower. A short trip from downtown Ottawa will likely cost between $10 and $15.
-
Parking
There is no on-site parking at Parliament Hill. Several parking garages are available nearby, including at 150 Albert St. Parking rates typically range from $3.75 to $12.75 per hour. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.
