Parliament Hill, Ottawa

A 2011 survey ranked Ottawa-Gatineau first among Canadian cities for educational attainment, with 31.5% of its population aged 15 and above holding a university degree (bachelor’s or higher). According to our tour guide, Ottawa also boasts the highest number of PhD holders in the workforce compared to any other city in Canada - a reflection of its role as the nation's political and administrative capital.

Unlike Quebec, French speakers do not form the majority in Ottawa. However, approximately 37% of the population is bilingual in English and French. Both languages are officially recognized, making Ottawa a truly bilingual city in governance and public affairs.

Our stopover in Ottawa was brief and limited to a single destination - Parliament Hill, widely regarded as the most iconic and significant site in the city. It is no surprise that this landmark was chosen for our short visit, as it attracts over 3 million visitors annually.

Parliament Hill is composed of three main building complexes: the Centre Block, East Block, and West Block, arranged around a central open lawn. At the heart of these buildings stands the Centennial Flame, a prominent monument that symbolically anchors the hill.

The Centre Block houses the House of Commons and the Senate chambers, along with offices for members of Parliament, senators, and senior administrative staff. Architecturally, the buildings exhibit Gothic Revival design with strong French influences, characterized by ornate stone carvings, pointed arches, and copper-topped towers.

The Centennial Flame, sometimes referred to as the Eternal Flame, was first lit on 1 January 1967, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. Despite its name, the flame is extinguished four times a year for cleaning and maintenance.

Parliament Building & Centennial Flame.

The Peace Tower at the centre of the 

Parliament Building stands at 302 feet. 

Since 2002, the buildings in Parliament Hill Precinct have been undergoing renovation and rehabilitation costing CAN$1 billion. This is scheduled to be completed in 2020.

West Block of Parliament Building Complex.

East Block of Parliament Building Complex.

It you ask me, "Have you been to Ottawa?". Yes, I did, but only to one teeny-tiny spot!