Experience Québec
Shopping
Rue Sainte-Catherine : a blend of history and commerce
From East to West, rue Sainte-Catherine has been Montréal’s pride and joy for over a century. Its boutiques, department stores, restaurants and theatres bring energy and excitement to the city’s downtown core.
As the capital of both Upper and Lower Canada, Montréal witnessed staggering economic and industrial growth during the mid-nineteenth century. Major projects such as the expansion of the Lachine canal, the construction of the Victoria Bridge and the establishment of several major banks were carried out. The focal point for all this activity was Rue Sainte-Catherine, a rapidly expanding commercial street. Today, Rue Sainte-Catherine crosses the heart of downtown Montréal from East to West and fills the air with a vibrant blend of energy and excitement.The Forum, which housed the Montréal Canadiens for over 70 years, is located at the western edge of this infamous street. La Maison Ogilvy is located at the intersection of rue de la Montagne. Founded in 1866, this department store remains one of Montréal’s most prestigious places to shop. As you walk a little further East, you will see yet another historical building. The former Simpson store has been entirely revamped and now houses a movie complex and "Simons", a long-standing Québec City institution and newcomer to the Montréal shopping scene. This fashionable and trendy store features exclusive, modern collections that are sure to please even the most discriminating shoppers. Place Montréal Trust, just a few steps to the East, is an impressive office and retail complex with more than 100 specialty shops and restaurants set on five levels.
Rue Sainte-Catherine’s next intersection is McGill College Avenue. This short yet very prestigious street gives way to a magnificent view of Mount Royal to the North and of Place Ville Marie to the South. McGill College Avenue’s office towers are home to several corporate head offices. Next on the horizon is Centre Eaton with its one hundred seventy five stores and six movie theaters. Its unique architectural design is worth the trip. Set above the McGill metro station, Centre Eaton is at the heart of Montréal’s underground network. As you pursue your stroll either underground or along rue Sainte-Catherine, you will reach Place de la Cathédrale and The Bay, the oldest commercial institution in Canada.The Hudson’s Bay Company was founded in 1670, by King Charles II of England. The Company played an instrumental role in the country’s fur trade. It has undergone tremendous transformation since its creation by pioneers Pierre-Esprit Radisson, Médard Chouart Sieur Des Groseilliers and James Knight. Although The Bay’s product line includes a wide range of goods, it remains a leading men’s and women’s clothing retailer.
One of Montréal’s most precious commercial treasures is located just across Phillips Square. Henry Birks opened his first store in Old Montréal in 1879. The store moved to its new rue Sainte-Catherine location in 1894, and has remained there ever since. This renowned jeweler boasts an elite clientèle from all over the world. Over 75% of Birks’ gold and platinum collection is crafted in-house. These magnificent pieces are created in workshops specializing in silverware, watches and jewelry. Henry Birks’ reputation for fine cutlery dates back to the sixteenth century. In fact, this prestigious retailer holds the longest-standing flatware trademark, registered in Sheffield, England.As you pursue your eastward stroll, you will see Place des Arts, where most of Montréal’s major festivals are held. Complexe Desjardins, one of Montréal’s busiest office and retail complexes, is just across the street. Continue a little further and you will reach Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, l’Université du Québec and its Quartier Latin, and Maison Archambault, which has been in business for over a century. If you are looking for a particular instrument or musical score, Archambault Musique is likely to carry it.
With its boutiques, restaurants and department stores spanning fifteen kilometers from East to West, rue Sainte-Catherine is one of Montréal’s most precious treasures.
Tourisme Québec
2007-11-20
