Ottawa: Difference between revisions
Created page with "= Ottawa = '''Ottawa''' is the capital city of Canada and the fourth-largest city in the country. Located in eastern Ontario, Ottawa sits on the south bank of the Ottawa River, directly across from Gatineau in the province of Quebec. It serves as the political and administrative center of Canada and is known for its historic landmarks, bilingual culture, and high quality of life. == Quick Facts == * '''Province''': Ontario * '''Population''': Over 1 mi..." |
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'''Ottawa''' is the capital city of [[Canada]] and the fourth-largest city in the country. Located in eastern [[Ontario]], Ottawa sits on the south bank of the Ottawa River, directly across from [[Gatineau]] in the province of [[Quebec]]. | '''Ottawa''' is the capital city of [[Canada]] and the fourth-largest city in the country. Located in eastern [[Ontario]], Ottawa sits on the south bank of the Ottawa River, directly across from [[Gatineau]] in the province of [[Quebec]]. | ||
Latest revision as of 00:51, 22 June 2025
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and the fourth-largest city in the country. Located in eastern Ontario, Ottawa sits on the south bank of the Ottawa River, directly across from Gatineau in the province of Quebec.
It serves as the political and administrative center of Canada and is known for its historic landmarks, bilingual culture, and high quality of life.
Quick Facts
- Province: Ontario
- Population: Over 1 million (metro area: 1.5 million)
- Official Languages: English and French
- Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
- Demonym: Ottawan
History
Ottawa was originally inhabited by the Algonquin people. European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, and the area became a hub for the timber trade.
In 1857, Queen Victoria selected Ottawa to be the capital of the Province of Canada due to its strategic location on the Ontario–Quebec border and its relative security from American attacks.
Geography
Ottawa lies at the confluence of three rivers: the Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau. The city features a mix of urban neighborhoods, historic architecture, riverside parks, and greenbelt lands.
Government and Politics
As the national capital, Ottawa is home to:
- Parliament Hill
- The Prime Minister's Office
- Supreme Court of Canada
- Foreign embassies
- Federal departments and agencies
Economy
The city's economy is based on:
- Public administration (major federal employer)
- Technology and telecommunications (Silicon Valley North)
- Education and research
- Tourism and cultural institutions
Major Attractions
- Parliament Hill
- Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Canadian Museum of History
- National Gallery of Canada
- ByWard Market
- Canadian War Museum
- Winterlude Festival (famous for ice skating)
Language and Culture
Ottawa is officially bilingual. Approximately 40% of residents speak both English and French. The city is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and year-round festivals.
Transportation
OC Transpo operates buses and the O-Train light rail. Ottawa is connected to major cities via VIA Rail and the Trans-Canada Highway. Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport serves domestic and international flights.
Education
Ottawa is home to several respected institutions:
- University of Ottawa (bilingual)
- Carleton University
- Algonquin College
- La Cité (French-language college)
Neighborhoods
- Downtown (Centretown)
- The Glebe
- ByWard Market
- Westboro
- Orleans
- Barrhaven
- Kanata (tech hub)
Did You Know?
- The Rideau Canal becomes the world’s longest skating rink each winter.
- Ottawa was originally named “Bytown” after Colonel John By, who supervised construction of the Rideau Canal.
- It is one of the cleanest and safest cities in North America.