The Edward VII Monument dominates and defines Phillips Square in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. This large and allegorical landmark is connected to the history and ideals that defined the nation at the time which carry through to the modern day, enabling audiences to engage with the past and present of the community on a profound level.
Marking the Reign of Edward VII
Named for Thomas Phillips, a building contractor and city councilor who bought the land, Philips Square was established in 1842. What was once on the fringe of the city of Montreal became the heart of the city in the early 20th century, making it the ideal location for the installation of a monument to Edward VII. While he died in 1910, Edward VII visited Montreal in 1860, when he was still the Prince of Wales.
Unveiled in 1914, a sculpture of Edward VII is atop a huge pedestal that has four allegorical figures on each side. In the classic Greek tradition, each represents the vision and actions that marked the reign of Edward VII.
On the west side is the Four Nations group, representing Montreal’s four founding nationalities (French, Scots, Irish, and English) living together in harmony. On the north side is a representation of Peace, who extends an olive branch but keeps a sword to her side. Winged Genius represents liberty on the south side, while the eastern side features Abundance, representing Canada’s material prosperity.
These features have enabled Philips Square as a whole to become a hub of activity for the entire community. Special events take place in the area on a regular basis while festive lights provide audiences with a reason to consistently visit. It’s also a place that people can stroll through or take a seat in to relax and enjoy the surroundings, which are defined by an architectural heritage that was further enhanced by a project to make it “a romantic oasis in the heart of downtown“. This sort of engagement has been made possible by a landmark that gives the space an identity to cultivate interest and attention that has transformed it into a true destination.
Personifying the Spirit of “The Peacemaker”
Edward VII was known as “the Peacemaker,” which is a spirit that the Edward VII Monument personifies on multiple levels. In doing so, it has provided a physical and spiritual identity that residents and visitors can connect with in a way that impacts the hearts and minds of audiences across the region and beyond.
