Bonsecours Market, Market hall in Old Montreal, Canada.
Bonsecours Market is a two-story domed structure that stretches across a full city block, featuring a symmetrical facade with tall columns and classical architectural elements. The interior has been modernized to function as a crafts center and event space while maintaining its historic character.
Construction began in 1844 and the market opened in January 1847, designed by British architect William Footner with a facade modelled on Dublin's Customs House. After the Parliament fire of 25 April 1849, the building housed the Parliament of United Canada for one session. From 12 January 1852 until 1878 it also contained Montreal's city council chambers.
The market is home to the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec and the Institut design de Montréal. Its upper-floor concert hall once hosted banquets and exhibitions. Since 2018 it has hosted the Montreal edition of World Press Photo, along with jewellery, wine and antique fairs and the Grande Braderie de Mode Québécoise.
The building sits in the heart of Old Montreal and is easily reached on foot from the harbor and other historic sites. Visitors should know it functions as a crafts center, and shop hours can vary seasonally or during special events.
The dome was destroyed by fire in 1976 and later rebuilt. Since then it has served as a clock for Old Montreal: lit in four different colours that change every quarter hour, with a flash marking each hour, staying illuminated until 1 a.m.
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