1 post tagged “parliament”
It is the wee hours of the morning here in the rural countryside north of Kingston, Ontario. I spent the last few days in Ottawa with my professional colleagues from worldwide in a workshop, and stayed at a nice hotel just steps from Parliament Hill. Ottawa is a wonderful city and the architecture evident around the hill is stunning in its antiquity and grandeur. Unless you're visiting the University of Toronto, it's something you rarely see in Canada's largest city. Rather, there is a sense of national pride that makes up the stone of our capital's halls. Fitting it is, though, that such architecture would be found at the centre of our country's government, for what place of higher esteem is there than Parliament Hill?
When my work was done and I said goodbye to my professional friends, my wife, son and I decided to stay an extra night in town so that I could see what sights I could before vacating. We took a nice stroll down Sparks Street and I found the coolest little shop, Astrolabe. It's an historical cartography shop, with framed maps from days gone by, geographical artwork in my eyes. I didn't step inside but at least I know it's there now so I can return. I've been to Sparks Street before, but it's nice once again to see the pedestrian-only laneway next to the parliament buildings. The cafes in the middle of the road are a nice touch, no?
We proceeded around the Hill and I saw the house of ferrell cats I'd recently heard about. There was a man sitting on a nearby bench who apparently takes care of the cats, and built the large house for them some 37 years ago. I understand that the government gives them the residence and pays for their food. It's quirky and it's neat. A great view of the Ottawa River can be had from an outlook next to the cathouse. Around back of the Hill, the Museum of Civilization can be seen across the river in Hull. You can't miss it's wavy appearance apparently due to the native mythology that right angled corners trap bad spirits. It's hogwash of course, but makes for a neat building design. I really love the Parliamentary Library at the back of the Hill. You have to see the stonework to really appreciate it. We rounded the Hill checking out the locks of the canal and made for the Rideau Centre shopping mall nearby for some grub and beer before heading back to the hotel to eat and drink.
What fun Ottawa is!
