The square is named after Émilie Gamelin, a 19th-century nun who founded the Sisters of Providence.
The prominent abstract sculptures and architectural installations were designed by Melvin Charney in 1992 as a reflection on the site's history.
Les Jardins Gamelin project, launched in 2015, was designed to revitalize the square through daily programming and community gardening.
The site previously served as the location for the Montreal Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb in the mid-1800s.
Émilie-Gamelin Place serves as a vibrant urban square located at the intersection of Berri and Sainte-Catherine streets in Montreal. The space is anchored by the 'Le Chorus' sculpture by artist Melvin Charney, which incorporates fragments of architectural history. It hosts the seasonal 'Les Jardins Gamelin' initiative, transforming the area into an outdoor cultural venue from spring through fall. The park occupies the site of the former Viger Asylum, which was founded by Émilie Gamelin. It is a central hub for civic life, featuring paved areas, green spaces, and a restaurant pavilion during the warm season. The square functions as a critical connection point between the Latin Quarter and the Gay Village. It is managed by the City of Montreal and frequently hosts public art installations and live performances.
Beside the 'Le Chorus' sculpture with the skyline of the Latin Quarter in the background.
Check the online schedule for Les Jardins Gamelin to time your visit with free live music or dance workshops.
Visit during the afternoon to take advantage of the snack bar and terrace seating available in the summer months.
Keep personal belongings secure, as the square is a busy, high-traffic pedestrian area.
Do not treat the square as a quiet park for solitude, as it is a high-traffic urban thoroughfare with significant surrounding noise.
The Les Jardins Gamelin cultural programming and food kiosks operate only from late spring through early autumn.
