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Province House (Charlottetown)
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Historical site
Province House in Charlottetown serves as the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island and is celebrated as the birthplace of the Canadian Confederation. Constructed between 1843 and 1847, the neoclassical sandstone structure was designed by architect Isaac Smith and remains one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Canada. Its place in history was secured in September 1864 when it hosted the Charlottetown Conference, the first meeting of delegates from the British North American colonies to discuss a political union, which eventually led to the formation of Canada in 1867. The building features the historic Confederation Chamber, which has been preserved to reflect its 19th-century appearance during those pivotal debates. It holds the distinction of being the second-oldest active legislative building in Canada. Today, Province House is a National Historic Site that functions both as a working parliament and a museum of national significance. Ongoing preservation efforts underscore its importance as a physical link to Canada's founding moments and its ongoing democratic traditions.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: MacKenzie Theatre · Year Marker · Mount Ryan Hill
- Nearby: Stanhope (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -5 | -6 | -3 | 3 | 8 | 14 | 19 | 19 | 16 | 11 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 75 | 70 | 79 | 77 | 95 | 76 | 88 | 94 | 112 | 105 | 105 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Province House in Charlottetown is the Birthplace of Confederation and can be visited via guided tour. The interior is open to visitors, and admission is free.
Typical hours
Province House is typically open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 17:00. Summer hours are extended; may be closed on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside the building, but without flash in the exhibition rooms. The historic chambers and architecture offer great photo subjects.
Time needed
A guided tour of Province House lasts about 45 minutes. For a self-guided visit and reading the exhibit panels, allow 30-60 minutes.
Combine with
Province House is in the heart of Charlottetown, near the Confederation Centre of the Arts. Combine the visit with a stroll along Victoria Row and the waterfront.
Getting there
Province House is at the corner of Grafton and Queen Street, within walking distance from most downtown hotels. Parking in the area is limited; public parking garages are a good option.
Insider tip
Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially in summer. Join the free guided tour to learn about the rich history of Confederation.
Geography
Facts
- Constructed between 1843 and 1847, it is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.
- It hosted the Charlottetown Conference in September 1864, leading to Confederation.
- It is the second-oldest active legislative building in all of Canada.
- The sandstone for the exterior was shipped from Pictou, Nova Scotia.
- The Confederation Chamber contains the original table used by the delegates in 1864.
- It was formally designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1973.
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Sights in the town Province House (Charlottetown) (17)
The Guild🎭 culture
Cultural venue inside the historic House Charlottetown building.
🌐 theguildpei.com🕒 Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Province House significant?
It hosted the 1864 Charlottetown Conference, the first step toward Canadian Confederation.
Is it currently open for visitors?
It is currently closed for extensive conservation and restoration work (as of 2024).
Where is it located?
In the heart of downtown Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
What can you see outside?
The impressive neoclassical architecture and various monuments on the grounds.
Where can I learn more while it's closed?
Visit the nearby Confederation Centre of the Arts for related exhibits.
Province House (Charlottetown): where is it located?
Province House (Charlottetown) is located in Canada.
Province House (Charlottetown): what is there to see?
Highlights include MacKenzie Theatre, Year Marker, Mount Ryan Hill.
Province House (Charlottetown): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Province House (Charlottetown): why is it worth visiting?
Province House in Charlottetown serves as the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island and is celebrated as the birthplace of the Canadian Confederation.
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