The district of Old Montreal (Vieux Montréal in French), in Montreal, Quebec, was once a walled district in what is today considered as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in North America. Located along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the district was established under the name of Ville-Marie in the 17th century, the city of Old Montreal is a district that prides itself for its rich historical and cultural heritage. During the 19th century, the district of Old Montreal was considered as a bourgeois center as the entire city of Montreal became the central hub of politics and commerce. After the Second World War, Old Montreal was forgotten momentarily as the surrounding districts were developed, leaving Old Montreal as it has been over the centuries. By the 1960s, the preservation of the architecture and infrastructures in the Old Montreal district has been recognized by the city of Montreal and Canada that it was declared as a National Historic Site.
Today, the district of Old Montreal bustles with life and activity. Each year, millions of travelers visit the Old Montreal district as they enjoy the charms of an era gone by while they are captivated with its nostalgic beauty and the breathtaking architectural designs of the buildings and infrastructures of the district. There are numerous museums that line the district further offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the city.
The guided walking tours are the best way to learn more about the city. Guided walking tours last about an hour and a half and is held both during the day and night time. One of the most popular is the Old Montreal Ghost Trail walking tour which provides you a glimpse on the darker, more haunting history of the district.