Rideau Hall, also known as the Government House, has been the residence and office of the Governor General of Canada since 1867. The Governor General is a representative of the British monarch and performs symbolic duties of the head of state. The mansion was built in 1838 and is a Victorian-style building. Compared to other official residences of heads of state like the White House and Buckingham Palace, Rideau Hall is modest and humble, yet exudes a sense of dignity and elegance. Important ceremonies, such as the Governor General meeting with foreign leaders or recognizing outstanding Canadian citizens, take place here. The main building is a three-story, dignified small house with a light gray facade, surrounded by a low-key yet vibrant garden. The atmosphere is serene. Guard changing ceremonies take place here every hour.
The Supreme Court of Canada started construction in 1939 and was completed in 1941, but it was primarily used as a government office for four years during the war. It wasn't until 1946 that the Supreme Court moved into its current building. This magnificent building includes the main entrance hall, the Supreme Court courtroom, judges' offices, meeting rooms, administrative offices, a library, and two courtrooms for the Federal Court of Canada.
A series of copper-topped Gothic-style buildings overlooking the Ottawa River is Parliament Hill, with the famous clock tower flying the Canadian flag. The solemn national parades take place in front of the Parliament Building, which exudes an ancient European style. On summer mornings, you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony of the Royal Guards in front of the Parliament Buildings. At night, the square in front of the Parliament Building is accompanied by an eternal bonfire and beautiful music, providing great enjoyment for visitors and those seeking relaxation.
The Rideau Canal is a great canal built in the early 19th century. It consists of the Rideau River and the Cataraqui River, with a length of 202 kilometers, running from Ottawa in the north to Kingston Harbor on Lake Ontario in the south. The canal was excavated for strategic military purposes during the competition for control of this area between Britain and the United States. The Rideau Canal is one of the first canals designed specifically for steamboats, and its defense works are another feature.
Capitol Hill
Parliament Hill is the seat of the Canadian national government and the venue for various national celebrations and ceremonies throughout the year. In the summer months, visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony every morning on Parliament Hill. In the evenings, there is a grand multimedia show open to the public, featuring spectacular light effects and massive projected images on the Parliament Buildings accompanied by narration and music. Every December, the "Christmas Lights Across Canada" event is held here, illuminating countless dazzling lights and creating a colorful Christmas atmosphere.
