Griffintown

This neighborhood to the west of Old Montreal is also known as Cité Multimédia. Developed in the 1820s by Irish workers, it takes its name from Mary Griffin, wife of the entrepreneur who developed the area.

Formerly made up of duplexes for workers, it was only in the early 2000s that we saw the emergence of large-scale real estate projects comprising mainly condos. Deserted and shunned after the decline of industrial activity, since its revitalization this district has become the most sought-after location for young professionals. At the same time, thanks to the development of the Cité du Multimédia, creators from the four corners of the globe have taken over former warehouses and factories, turning them into castles of multimedia creation and positioning Montreal as an internationally recognized leader in this field.

In short, Griffintown has experienced a boom unparalleled in Montreal. From being a little-known, neglected neighborhood at the end of the last century, we've now found ourselves in a great place to live, and one that year after year, project after project, attracts an ever-growing clientele.

Bordered to the south by the bucolic Lachine Canal, residents enjoy the area's footpaths and network of bicycle paths. It's an ideal place to relax and watch the boaters at the many locks, or simply to go shopping at the popular Atwater open-air market.

Griffintown is also served by public transit (buses and 2 metro stations). Proximity to the Ville-Marie expressway and major downtown arteries also means quick access.

Rue Notre-Dame is home to many of Montreal's best and most renowned restaurants, though with less room for the countless antique stores of yesteryear. Diners are just as likely to be local residents as tourists, curious and satisfied by the sheer number of choices.

Last but not least, the arts scene also plays a major role in Griffintown's cultural life, with the Beanfield Theatre (formerly Le Corona) featuring young musicians of all musical persuasions, the Arsenal presenting the city's most popular interactive exhibitions, and not forgetting the Centre d'art de Montréal, which promotes and presents the work of local artists.

A place to discover for those interested in the history of Montreal's industrial life and, above all, in the active, dynamic life that this vibrant district now offers.