Canadian Underground Cities

Nestled beneath the bustling urban landscapes of several major Canadian cities lay hidden marvels, known as underground cities. These subterranean labyrinths are not secret hideouts or ancient ruins but are instead highly-functioning interconnected networks of tunnels, walkways, and facilities. An extraordinary feat of engineering, Canadian underground cities are a unique solution to cope with extreme weather conditions while providing an array of amenities to residents and visitors alike.

One of the most renowned underground cities in Canada can be found beneath Montreal, Quebec. Known as RESO or La Ville Souterraine in French, Montreal’s underground city is the largest underground network in the world, spanning over 32 kilometers. This sprawling complex connects malls, office buildings, universities, hotels, metro stations, and even residential areas. With over 120 access points, thousands of people can traverse this subterranean world, shielded from the harsh elements of Montreal’s long winters and humid summers.

RESO is not just a practical solution to escape inclement weather; it is a bustling hub of activity. The Burroughs of Montreal’s underground city are lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, theaters, museums, and art galleries. It is home to the iconic Bell Centre, where the Montreal Canadiens hockey team plays their home games. The underground city also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant and lively destination.

Moving west across Canada, another impressive underground city can be found in Toronto, Ontario. PATH, Toronto’s underground city, is a network of tunnels and walkways that spans over 30 kilometers. Although not as extensive as Montreal’s RESO, it still offers shelter from the city’s harsh winters and humid summers. PATH connects various commercial buildings, shops, restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues, and public transportation hubs.

PATH is not just a solution to avoid inclement weather; it is a lifeline for Toronto’s downtown core. On any given day, over 200,000 commuters use PATH to navigate the city, making it one of the busiest underground networks in North America. The network is so interconnected that one can traverse it from Union Station to the CN Tower without ever stepping foot outside. Along the way, one can explore the vast maze of interconnected shopping centers, luxury boutiques, and food courts, making it a shopaholic’s paradise.

Venturing even farther west, we arrive in Calgary, Alberta, home to its very own underground city called the Plus 15 System. Spanning approximately 18 kilometers, Plus 15 is named for the fact that its walkways are approximately 15 feet above street level. This network connects many of Calgary’s downtown buildings, including office towers, shopping centers, and hotels.

Like Montreal and Toronto’s underground cities, Plus 15 provides respite from Calgary’s extreme weather conditions, including frigid winters and scorching summers. However, it also contributes to the vibrant city life by hosting numerous art installations, sculptures, and events. Plus 15 also offers stunning views of the city skyline, allowing residents and visitors to admire Calgary’s beauty even from below.

Canadian underground cities are not just architectural marvels; they are a symbolic representation of the Canadian spirit of adaptability and innovation. These underground networks seamlessly integrate into city life, offering convenience, comfort, and protection from the harsh environment. They are not merely a solution to weather-related challenges but thriving hubs of commerce, culture, and communal interaction.

Visiting these underground cities is an experience like no other, offering a glimpse into the unique blend of practicality and ingenuity of Canadian design. So, next time you find yourself in Montreal, Toronto, or Calgary, be sure to explore these incredible subterranean worlds that lie just beneath your feet.