Pioneers' Obelisk

The Pioneers' Obelisk is a granite structure set on a four-sided base and adorned with four bronze plaques. It stands in Place d'Youville in the heart of Old Montreal and serves as a landmark reference point in the historic district.

The Montreal Historical Society commissioned this monument in 1893 to mark 250 years since Montreal's founding and unveiled it in 1894. Its installation marked an important moment when the city recognized its early origins.

The pedestal displays four bronze plaques that name key founders like Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve and Jeanne Mance. These inscriptions serve as a direct connection to the people who shaped Montreal's beginnings.

The obelisk is located at Place d'Youville in the Ville-Marie district and is easily reached on foot. The open square surrounding it is accessible to visitors at any time and provides a good starting point for exploring nearby heritage sites.

Moving this structure required 40 horses to transport the 17-ton granite block to its original location. This logistical effort reflects the challenges of construction in the late 1800s.

Location: Ville-Marie

Inception: 1893

GPS coordinates: 45.50084,-73.55564

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:21