East Block, Gothic Revival building at Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada
Description
East Block is a Gothic Revival building on Parliament Hill featuring asymmetrical stone walls, gothic decorations, and multiple towers in High Victorian style. The structure sits on Wellington Street and functions today as a museum with preserved historic rooms and government chambers.
History
The building was constructed between 1859 and 1865 and became the office for every Canadian Prime Minister from Macdonald through Trudeau. Its rooms document over a century of parliamentary and executive work.
Culture
This building embodies the inner workings of Canadian government and has shaped the political center for generations. The rooms inside have witnessed decisions that shaped the nation.
Practical
The building is accessible today through the museum, where visitors can explore historic rooms and government chambers. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when all spaces are open and the architecture can be fully appreciated.
Did you know?
The interior preserves the original office layout along central corridors with walls of Nepean sandstone and copper roofing. This arrangement reveals how government work was spatially organized and offers insight into daily administrative practices.
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