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The capital of Canada is Ottawa – a city famous not only for its peaceful beauty but also for its rich history, vibrant culture, and its central role in politics and economics. This article from Quoctichthuhai.com will help you explore comprehensive information about Ottawa, the reasons why it was chosen as the capital, and the unique features found only here.
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada
The capital of Canada is known as Ottawa (pronounced "Ott-ta-goa"). This decision was made by Queen Victoria on December 31, 1857.
Before becoming the capital of Canada, Ottawa was just a remote and little-known area, far from major cities. In Canada, each province has a city designated as its capital. However, despite being the nation's capital, Ottawa is not the capital of Ontario; that title belongs to Toronto. As a result, many people mistakenly think Toronto is the capital of Canada.
The Process of Choosing and Forming the Capital of Canada
Ottawa is the only capital city throughout the 26-year history of Canada's formation. Before it was called Canada, the country was known as the "Province of Canada." From 1841 to 1866, continuous debates took place to decide which city would become the capital of this province.
In 1857, Queen Victoria decided to choose Ottawa as the capital of Canada, bypassing the previous capital cities. Ottawa officially became the capital of Canada in 1866, and during this process, there were a total of six changes, in the following order:
Why Ottawa Became the Capital of Canada?
According to one theory, the Queen accidentally chose Ottawa as the capital when she placed her brooch at the midpoint between Toronto and Montreal on the map, or perhaps she was attracted to the color of the land in this area on the map.
However, the reality is that Queen Victoria’s advisors recommended this city to become the capital of Canada for three reasons:
Since becoming the capital of Canada, it has proven that Queen Victoria's decision was absolutely correct. The city, with over a million residents, has grown significantly and become a vital administrative and political center of the country. Additionally, it is a major trade and technology hub and a popular tourist destination for international visitors.
Ottawa is located in the province of Ontario and is the second-largest city in the province
Ottawa has an area of 2,778.64 km² and is located in the province of Ontario. It ranks as the second-largest city in the province and the fourth-largest city in the country. It borders U.S. states such as Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and part of New York. The city is approximately 400 km northeast of Toronto and 190 km west of Montreal.
Ottawa is a city that brings together various cultures and ethnicities, creating a rich cultural and social diversity. It is also the political and administrative center of Canada, where the federal government and the provinces and territories connect. Additionally, it is a rapidly growing hub for technology, business, and tourism, attracting international events and large conferences.
Currently, Ottawa is a center for key industries such as telecommunications, software, information technology, defense, security, and tourism. With around 1,800 companies, it creates more than 76,000 job opportunities for its residents.
With its advanced education system, the city is considered one of the places with the best educational quality in Canada. Over half of its population has completed post-secondary and university education, and it is home to many prestigious universities and graduate institutions.
If you're looking for career opportunities in Canada, Ottawa is the ideal destination. With an unemployment rate of just about 6%, the city offers numerous opportunities in various fields.
The Climate in Ottawa is More Harsh Than in Other Cities
With a humid continental climate, Canada's capital is not the city with the most pleasant weather in the country. It is the 7th coldest capital globally and experiences long winters with heavy snowfall. Compared to other capitals, Ottawa's average temperatures are only slightly higher.
Each year, the city receives an average of 236 cm of snowfall. Notably, in the winter of 1970-1971, Ottawa recorded a record snowfall of 444.1 cm.
In terms of temperature, winters can get very cold, with a record low of -38.9°C in 1933. In January, the average temperature is typically around -11°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to -25°C. While winter in Canada's capital is long, the summers can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 39.5°C in 2005. The average temperature in July typically hovers around 27°C.
Unique Festivals in Ottawa, Canada
Unique Festivals in Ottawa, Canada:
First launched in 1994, the Bluesfest Music Festival has become a major outdoor event, recognized by Billboard as one of the largest music festivals in the world. Held every July, the festival spans two weeks and showcases a diverse range of musical performances, from blues and rock to other genres, attracting music lovers from all over. It has grown to be one of the key cultural events in Ottawa, offering a lively and exciting atmosphere for attendees.
The Food and Wine Festival takes place in October and typically lasts for about three days. While the event is held in the fall, the main activities are generally organized in the spring. This festival highlights the best of the region's culinary offerings, including gourmet food, fine wines, and unique food pairings, and provides an opportunity for food lovers to indulge in tastings and cooking demonstrations.
Italian Week is an opportunity to experience the culture and unique activities of Italy right in the heart of Canada's capital. This festival takes place every year in June, lasting from 7 to 10 days, and is held along Preston Street, in the Little Italy neighborhood.
During this week, Ottawa comes alive with Italian music, food, art, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine, street performances, cultural displays, and various activities that showcase the rich heritage of Italy. The festival brings together the local Italian community and attracts people from all over to celebrate Italy's cultural contributions.
The Oktoberfest Beer Festival takes place in mid-June in the suburbs of Canada's capital. It is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy delicious beer while immersing yourself in a lively atmosphere filled with music and diverse food offerings. The festival celebrates German culture, with beer tents offering a wide variety of brews, traditional German foods, and performances, creating a fun and festive environment for attendees to enjoy. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to experience a unique cultural celebration, Oktoberfest in Ottawa is an event not to be missed.
Vào dịp quốc khánh ngày 1 tháng 7 hàng năm, thủ đô Canada sẽ tổ chức những màn bắn pháo hoa tuyệt đẹp, cùng với các buổi hòa nhạc ngoài trời diễn ra tại đồi Hili.
Canada Day, celebrated on July 1st, is the national holiday of Canada and is a major celebration in Ottawa, the country’s capital. The day marks the confederation of Canada, when the British North America Act (now known as the Constitution Act, 1867) came into effect, uniting the provinces of Canada into one country.
In Ottawa, Canada Day celebrations are held at Parliament Hill, where thousands of people gather to enjoy various activities. The day includes patriotic performances, concerts, a parade, and speeches by political leaders. The festivities culminate in a grand fireworks display over the Ottawa River, lighting up the sky and attracting visitors from across the nation.
The celebrations also feature outdoor activities, live entertainment, cultural performances, and festivals around the city, making it a vibrant and exciting day for both locals and tourists. It’s a day filled with Canadian pride, celebrating the country’s history, diversity, and unity.
Not only is Ottawa the capital city of Canada, but it also makes a strong impression with its culinary scene, particularly with the famous BeaverTails pastry. You can enjoy this sweet treat with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, cookies, or pastry cream at the ByWard Market.
In addition to BeaverTails, Ottawa is known for a wide range of delicious dishes, including grilled meats, local meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, all prepared with finesse by talented chefs. The presence of the renowned Le Cordon Bleu culinary arts institute in the city has further contributed to making Ottawa a hub for outstanding chefs, offering creative and impressive cuisine.
For those who love food and are looking for a place to settle in Canada, Ottawa is the ideal destination.
Ottawa is home to many interesting tourist landmarks
Ottawa also boasts famous tourist attractions that you should not miss when visiting Canada. Specifically:
When visiting Canada’s capital, you cannot miss the opportunity to tour Parliament Hill, considered the political heart of Canada. Located on a 50-meter-high hill overlooking the Ottawa River, this building impresses with its grand Gothic architecture, rich in history and elegance.
With its unique octagonal shape, the building stands out in the vibrant center of Ottawa. Upon entering, visitors are often awestruck by the intricately designed interiors. The ceiling is adorned with stained glass featuring rose, iris, and maple leaf designs—symbols representing the United Kingdom, France, and Canada. Additionally, Parliament Hill regularly hosts various cultural festivals and events that celebrate the country’s heritage.
Located along the Ottawa River, the Canadian Museum of History is a must-visit destination. Spanning an impressive 25,000 square meters, the museum features exhibition spaces spread over four floors, showcasing Canada’s history from its earliest days, along with global history, cultures, arts, and national traditions. With over 3 million valuable artifacts and state-of-the-art displays and interactive exhibitions, the museum serves as a hub for sharing Canada’s cultural heritage with the world.
The Rideau Canal is an essential destination for any trip to Canada. As the oldest canal system in North America, it stretches 202 kilometers, connecting the capital city of Canada to the port of Kingston, Ontario, and was completed over a span of five years.
In the summer, the canal's surroundings are filled with vibrant flowers, offering visitors a chance to enjoy both scenic views and relaxing strolls along romantic pathways.
During the winter, the Rideau Canal transforms into the world's largest natural ice skating rink, stretching 7.8 km and covering an area equivalent to 90 Olympic-sized ice rinks, making it a paradise for ice skating enthusiasts.
As the oldest public market in Ottawa, ByWard Market was established in 1827 and is located to the east of Parliament Hill. This vibrant destination is perfect for tourists, offering a lively atmosphere, cultural diversity, and a wide range of exciting activities. Visitors can explore local produce, artisan goods, restaurants, and shops, making it a must-see spot in the city. Whether you're looking to sample fresh food, enjoy local crafts, or simply experience the bustling environment, ByWard Market offers something for everyone.
If you are planning to visit or live in Ottawa, here are some common living costs to consider:
Interesting Facts About Ottawa You May Not Know
Here are some interesting facts about the capital of Canada:
The Name "Ottawa": The name "Ottawa" comes from the word "adawe" in the Algonquin language, meaning "to trade," which relates to the city’s strategic location.
Young Population: With nearly 50% of its population under 35 years old, Ottawa is considered one of the cities with the youngest demographic in Canada.
Ottawa's Cold Climate: Ottawa ranks as the seventh coldest capital city in the world, just behind cities like Ulaanbaatar, Astana, Moscow, Helsinki, Reykjavik, and Tallinn.
Distinct Seasons: Despite its harsh climate, Ottawa experiences all four distinct seasons, offering a range of activities throughout the year.
Cultural Hub: Ottawa is home to over 14 museums, with the Canadian Museum of Civilization being the most visited destination in the country.
Château Laurier: The famous Château Laurier Hotel is not only known for its beauty but also for the ghost stories of Charles Melville Hays, who died on the Titanic before the hotel opened.
A Former Prison: Visitors to Ottawa can choose to stay in a historic hostel that was once a prison in the 19th century.
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa offers a diverse working environment, providing numerous job opportunities for its residents. The city is also known for its high quality of life, clean environment, and excellent education, making it a top choice for those looking to settle long-term.
If you're seeking opportunities to live and work here, don't hesitate to contact Quoctichthuhai.com for quick support and professional immigration advice to Canada!
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