A new emblem of the metropolis was unveiled Wednesday at the Grand Quay in the Old Port of Montreal. And Tourisme Montréal hopes that it will become a popular destination for those who wish to immortalize the city’s skyline in photos.
Located along the St. Lawrence River, this new structure proclaiming “Bonjour Montréal” in giant letters offers one of the “most beautiful views of Montreal”, notes the general manager of the tourist organization, Yves Lalumière, who participated in the unveiling. of the installation. “‘Bonjour Montréal’ is both a universal and unique signature that embodies the singular character of Montréal, combining hospitality and French-speaking origins,” he says.
The 5,286-kilogram structure required $650,000, including $500,000 in federal funds; Tourisme Montréal picked up the rest of the bill. This is less than what was paid for a similar installation in Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto, says Aurélie de Blois, spokesperson for the organization. According to her, this is a worthwhile investment, because this “Bonjour Montréal” will be photographed and shared on social networks for years to come.
Made in Montreal by local companies, it is made of wood “from ash trees cut down due to the borer,” explains Tourisme Montreal. From behind, visitors can admire a mirror effect that captures the sunlight.
“Today, with the installation of this magnificent ‘hello’, we want to contribute to strengthening the positive experience of tourists”, launched Guillaume Brossard, of the Port of Montreal. “For each person who will pass here, this new sign of welcome will represent a warm welcome, a welcome in the image of Montrealers, and it will mark the start of a memorable visit. »
For Emmanuel Dubourg, Member of Parliament for Bourassa and representative of Canada Economic Development, this is “highly strategic infrastructure” for the city. “This new four-season attraction will quickly become, I’m sure, a strong representation of the metropolis. »