Parliament Hill, National historic site in Ottawa, Canada
Parliament Hill is a building complex in Ottawa, Canada, rising along the southern bank of the Ottawa River. The site consists of three main limestone structures featuring pointed Gothic arches and central tower elements.
Ground was broken on 20 December 1859 and the first stones laid in April 1860; the Prince of Wales laid the Centre Block cornerstone on 1 September 1860. A fire on 3 February 1916 destroyed the Centre Block, sparing the Library and the East and West Blocks. Reconstruction under John A. Pearson and Jean-Omer Marchand began on 24 July 1916, and the Peace Tower was completed in 1927.
The grounds hold statues, memorials, and the Summer Pavilion gazebo, which serves as the National Police Memorial. The site is a focal point for national celebrations and attracts about three million visitors each year.
Visitors pass through security screening at the entrance before exploring the legislative chambers and public areas. Guided tours run year-round and require advance online booking during peak summer months.
The library survived the 1916 fire as the only original building when staff closed heavy metal doors in time. Its wooden dome and spiral galleries remained intact while flames consumed the surrounding chambers.
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