119, rue Saint-Jacques

Rich impressive style building in this surrounding

The Bank of Montreal (BMO), originally founded as the Montreal Bank in 1817, holds the distinction of being the oldest bank in Canada. Its impressive head office building at Place d’Armes, completed in 1847, once served as the central hub of banking operations, although it no longer functions as the bank’s main headquarters today.

Even if you can’t go inside, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the neoclassical architecture of this Pantheon-inspired building—its grand columns and domed structure make it a striking landmark in Old Montreal.

This area around Place d’Armes is rich in architectural and historical significance. Just steps away, you’ll find the Notre-Dame Basilica, the New York Life Building (Montreal’s first skyscraper), and the Aldred Building, among others. Many of these buildings once housed major financial institutions, including the Bank of Commerce, the Molson Bank, and the Montreal Stock Exchange.

The Bank of Montreal Museum, located within the building, offers insight into the early days of banking in Canada, showcasing historical banking tools and practices. In early 2025, admission was free, making it an accessible stop for those interested in Montreal’s financial heritage.

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