Montreal Museums
Although Montreal doesn't spring to mind as a major destination for
museum-hopping, several of the city's art institutions are fairly well known
internationally.
The biggest draw, without a doubt, is the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, now housed in two buildings (the modern one was built by Moshe Safdie in the early 1990's).
- Canadian Centre for Architecture
- 1920 Rue Baile
Built around an existing structure (Shaughnessy House, visible only from Boulevard René-Lévesque) which was bought out by the Centre's founder, Phyllis Lambert, this museum contains a collection of photos, drawings, prints and other artifacts. Temporary exhibition space, a study and a book store are located in the central section. - Musée d'archéologie Pointe-à-Callière
- 350 Place Royale
Occupying the spot where the French explorers docked when they arrived at what was to become Montreal, this triangular building (whose shape evoking a silhouette of a ship), houses the Musée d'archéologie et d'histoire de Montréal - the only sizeable archeology museum in the country. (The museum actually occupies several buildings, the Pointe-à-Callière being the main one, marking the museum's entrance). Built for the celebrations of the 350th anniversary of the city, the Pointe-à-Callière is considered one of the better examples of post-modern buildings in the city. - Montreal Modern Art Museum
- 185, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest
This compact museum located in the Place des Arts complex holds over 7,000 works in its permanent collection. It was founded by the provincial government in 1964. - Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
- 1380 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
Founded in 1860, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal) shows the work of Canadian and international artists. It is Montreal's largest museum.