Louis Riel Sculpture, Winnipeg Travel Guide

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Honoring Louis Riel: A prominent statue on the Manitoba Legislative Building grounds commemorating the Métis leader and founder of Manitoba.

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Louis Riel Sculpture

Located on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building, the Louis Riel Sculpture commemorates the Métis leader's role in the development of Canadian Confederation and the founding of Manitoba. Sculpted by Miguel Joyal and commissioned by the Manitoba Metis Federation, the statue stands as a tribute to Riel's legacy and the rights of the Métis people.

A brief summary to Louis Riel Sculpture

Winnipeg, Legislature, Manitoba, CA

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Louis Riel Sculpture.

Take a stroll along the Assiniboine Riverwalk for scenic views of the river and the Legislative Building grounds.
Visit the Manitoba Legislative Building to learn more about the province's history and government.
Explore other nearby attractions, such as the St. Boniface Museum, to delve deeper into Métis heritage.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

The Forks National Historic Site

Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park

Assiniboine Park

Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

Manitoba Legislative Building

Explore Louis Riel Sculpture on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Louis Riel Sculpture, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of Portage and Main, walk south on Main Street towards the Assiniboine River. Turn left onto Broadway and continue east until you reach the Manitoba Legislative Building. The Louis Riel Sculpture is located on the south grounds, facing the river. No cost for access.
Public Transport

Take any Winnipeg Transit bus that stops near the Manitoba Legislative Building. Several routes run along Broadway and Osborne Street, which border the Legislative Building grounds. Alight at a stop near the Legislative Building and walk to the south grounds to find the Louis Riel Sculpture. A single ride fare is $3.35. Transfers are available and valid for 75 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-share

From anywhere in downtown Winnipeg, a taxi or ride-share to the Manitoba Legislative Building will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on the distance and traffic. Ask your driver to drop you off near the south grounds for easy access to the Louis Riel Sculpture.

Discover more about Louis Riel Sculpture

The Louis Riel Sculpture, situated on the south grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building, is a powerful tribute to Louis Riel, a significant figure in Manitoba's history. Riel was a leader of the Métis people and played a crucial role in the development of Canadian Confederation and the founding of the province.The statue, created by Winnipeg artist Miguel Joyal, was unveiled in May 1996. It replaced an earlier, more controversial statue that was moved to the Université de Saint-Boniface. The bronze sculpture stands at 3.5 meters (11 feet) tall and depicts Riel in 19th-century attire, including a shirt, overcoat, trousers, and moccasins. He is portrayed holding a scroll representing the Manitoba Act, a key piece of legislation in the province's history. The statue's position, with Riel facing the Assiniboine River, is meant to convey power and leadership.Visiting the Louis Riel Sculpture offers a chance to reflect on the complex history of Manitoba and the role of the Métis people. The surrounding grounds of the Legislative Building provide a beautiful setting for contemplation, with gardens and river views adding to the experience.