National War Memorial

A monumental granite arch displays twenty-two life-sized bronze figures of soldiers from various military branches marching through the central opening. Atop the arch stand two winged figures representing Peace and Liberty, watching over the procession below. The sculptural ensemble was designed to convey movement and the progression of Canadian armed forces through various conflicts.

King George VI unveiled the work on May 21, 1939, originally honoring Canadian soldiers who died in the First World War. British sculptor Vernon March won the design competition in 1925 but died before completion, with his siblings continuing the project. In 2000, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was added, expanding its scope to encompass all Canadian military conflicts.

This memorial houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where people lay poppies each November 11 during remembrance ceremonies. It serves as a national symbol of mourning and gratitude, connecting generations of Canadians in honoring those who fell in military service. The site functions as an active venue for public commemorations and attracts thousands of visitors annually.

An honor guard is present daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with changing of the guard occurring hourly during summer months. The site is accessible via Rideau metro station on the 95 bus route or by walking from Parliament Hill. Visitors should expect large crowds and barriers on November 11 due to ceremonies.

Construction required 503 tonnes (555 short tons) of rose-grey Canadian granite from Quebec and 32 tonnes (35 short tons) of bronze for the human figures. The stone was quarried at Deschambault, a location known for its high-quality granite deposits. The bronze figures were cast in England at a foundry operated by the March family before being shipped to Canada.

Location: Ottawa

Inception: May 21, 1939

Architects: Vernon March

GPS coordinates: 45.42404,-75.69550

Latest update: November 28, 2025 21:16