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Louis Riel Sculpture: A Tribute to Manitoba's Founder

Honoring Louis Riel: A symbol of Métis heritage and Manitoba's founder on the grounds of the Legislative Building in Winnipeg.

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The Louis Riel Sculpture, located on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg, honors Louis Riel, a key figure in Manitoba's history and a champion for Indigenous rights. The statue, commissioned by the Manitoba Metis Federation, stands as a testament to Riel's contribution to Canadian Confederation and the role of the Métis people in founding Manitoba.

A brief summary to Louis Riel Sculpture

  • Winnipeg, Legislature, Manitoba, CA

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the Legislative Building grounds to appreciate the architecture and surrounding green space.
  • Visit the statue during different times of the day to see how the light changes its appearance.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Manitoba Legislative Building to learn more about the province's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in downtown Winnipeg, walking to the Louis Riel Sculpture is a convenient option. Head towards Broadway Avenue and the Manitoba Legislative Building. The statue is located on the south grounds of the building, facing the Assiniboine River.

  • Public Transport

    Take Winnipeg Transit to downtown Winnipeg. Many bus routes serve the area. From the downtown bus terminal, walk east on Broadway to the Manitoba Legislative Building. The statue is located on the south grounds. A single ride fare is $3.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Winnipeg. A short trip from downtown to the Manitoba Legislative Building will cost approximately $10-$15.

  • Parking

    Street parking is available around the Legislative Building, but payment may be required during business hours. Check parking meters for rates and time restrictions. There are also nearby parking lots that charge hourly or daily rates, typically around $5 to $10. On Saturdays, there is complementary parking for up to 2 hours and free parking on Sundays.

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Discover more about Louis Riel Sculpture

The Louis Riel Sculpture is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of Canadian heritage and resilience. Created by sculptor Miguel Joyal and unveiled in 1996, the 3.5-meter bronze statue depicts Riel in 19th-century attire, holding a parchment representing the Manitoba Act. The statue's design conveys power and leadership, commemorating Riel's role in leading the Red River Rebellion and paving the way for Manitoba's entry into Confederation in 1870. The statue stands on the south grounds of the Legislative Building, facing the Assiniboine River. This location complements the plaza, fountain, and riverwalk, creating a space for reflection on Riel's legacy and the ongoing journey of reconciliation in Canada. An earlier, controversial statue of Riel, created by Marcien Lemay and Étienne Gaboury, stood on the Legislative Building grounds from 1971 to 1995. This abstract sculpture, which depicted Riel in a nude and distorted form, was moved to the grounds of the Université de Saint-Boniface. Today, visitors can see both statues, offering different artistic interpretations of this important historical figure.

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