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The Parliament Buildings in Ottawa are one
of Canada's most important icons. Their
distinctive Gothic Revival architecture, as
well as their remarkable physical setting
on Parliament Hill, make them instantly
recognizable to most Canadians.
The focal point of Parliament Hill is the
Centre Block and its Peace Tower. The
building is home to the House of Commons
and Senate, and is directly linked to the
Library of Parliament. Although its
exterior architecture has been profiled
many times over the years, its interiors
and their exceptional furnishings remain
less known.
The House of Commons Heritage Collection
features objects ranging from sculpture and
furniture to official portraits and
historical paintings. Most of the objects
in this collection have been given heritage
designation for their association with a
historical event or person, for their
aesthetic value, or for their importance as
part of the history and traditions of
Parliament. The purpose of the Collection
is to document and preserve the history of
the House of Commons through these objects.
This website has been designed to provide
information on some of the over 5,000
artefacts in the House of Commons Heritage
Collection. It also includes detailed
profiles of the primary heritage and
ceremonial spaces used by the House of
Commons within the Centre Block. It
provides information on architectural
elements, such as the stained glass
windows, murals, frescoes, and
architectural sculpture that are under the
care of the Public Works and Government
Services Canada. These elements are
integral to the interior design of the
House of Commons, and enhance the themes
and messages of each of these important
national spaces.
For further information on other aspects of
the House of Commons and Parliament Hill,
please click on the links.
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