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Montreal Fun Facts

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Montreal is one of Canada’s favourite French Canadian cities thanks to year round events and natural charm. Furthermore, you can find some of the best food experiences in all of Canada! That being said, check out this top 10 list of interesting Montreal fun facts.

1

Montreal hosts the most international events in North America

montreal

 Without a doubt, Montreal is a good time on any occasion. In fact, the city hosts a large number of popular international events. Including Cirque du Soleil, the Canada Grand Prix, and the Just for Laughs Festival, for instance. Also, in 1976 Montreal hosted the first Canadian Olympics!

2

80% of the world's maple syrup comes from Canada

maple syrup

 This interesting fact is not quite Montreal-specific. Although, of the world’s 80% of maple syrup, 70% comes from the province of Québec. Correspondingly, a large number of maple syrup sales happen in Montreal. That being said, make sure to try some on your next visit. In particular, maple candy, fudge, or just delicious 100% pure maple syrup!

3

Second largest city in Canada

montreal

 With a population of roughly 4.2 million people, Montreal is the second largest city in Canada after Toronto. Note that Montreal was once the largest city in Canada for quite some time. However, do not let the size fool you as a visit to this city feels surprisingly intimate.

4

A UNESCO City of Design

montreal

 The UNESCO creative cities network recognizes cities that identify creativity as a factor for sustainable urban development. Furthermore, a city of design means that many industry areas are focused with design at the forefront. Particularly, schools, landscape designs, research centres, and architecture to name of few. Without a doubt, take a walk through the streets and you can definitely see the creativity shine through!

5

Buildings cannot exceed the height of Mount Royal

 Montreal municipal regulations forbid any building from being higher than the height of Mount Royal! That being said, Mount Royal is 233 metres (764 ft) tall. Whereas the tallest building in Montreal is 226.5 metres (754 ft) tall.

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6

Over a dozen Sister Cities

 Sister Cities, or Twin Cities, are when two geographically distinct localities form a relationship to promote cultural ties. In this case, Montreal has over a dozen Sister Cities. Including Hiroshima (Japan), Hanoi (Vietnam), Brussels (Belgium), and Lyon (France), for instance.

7

St. Joseph's Oratory is Canada's largest church

St. Joseph's Oratory

 Near the foot of Mont Royal sits St. Joseph’s Oratory, the largest church in Canada. Not only that but it is also a National Canadian Heritage Site. Indeed, a visit to this attraction is a must when travelling in Montreal. Needless to say, size is quite impressive up close. Absolutely make sure to visit the site during your trip.

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8

Montreal once heavily relied on fur trading

 Fur trading in Canada was a large industry that played a formative role in the development of Canada. Consequently, Montreal (known as Ville Marie at the time) became primarily focused on the European demand for felt hats. Further, this industry dominated the city until the early to mid 19th century.

9

Poutine is considered to be Canada's national dish

Paul Patates

 One of the most famous and well known dishes in Canada is the mouth-watering poutine. In fact, you can find it in cities all across Canada. Although the best poutine is found in Montreal! With this in mind, let yourself indulge during your visit. 

10

The first search engine before google was invented here

Belvedere Kondiaronk

 Before google was the talk of the town, a search engine named ‘Archie’ was launched. On September 10, 1990, Alan Emtage, a postgraduate student at McGill University founded the first search engine.

Did you like these fun facts? If so, let us know below! Also, check out our Montreal Guide for everything to know before you go.

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