Canadian Museum of History
A national institution dedicated to Canadian anthropology, history, and cultural heritage, housing over three million artifacts in a landmark building by architect Douglas Cardinal.
At a glance
The Canadian Museum of History preserves and interprets the material culture and stories of Canada. Its 75,000-square-metre building, completed in 1989, anchors Gatineau’s cultural landscape and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to explore permanent and rotating exhibitions.
History
The institution traces its roots to 1856, when the Geological Survey of Canada established a museum to document the young nation’s natural heritage. An anthropology division was added in 1910, reflecting growing interest in Canada’s Indigenous peoples and cultural diversity.
In 1927, the organization became the National Museum of Canada. By 1968, the expanding institution split into specialized museums; the anthropology and human history sections formed the National Museum of Man. The museum relocated to its current Gatineau location in 1989 and was renamed the Canadian Museum of Civilization in 1990.
A significant rebranding occurred in 2013, when the institution adopted its present name and refocused its mandate on Canadian identity and history.
What you see
Douglas Cardinal’s design is a commanding modern structure spanning 75,000 square metres. The building’s architectural approach reflects contemporary museum thinking: spacious galleries, flexible exhibition areas, and infrastructure supporting both permanent collections and temporary displays.
Cultural significance
As Canada’s principal museum of history and anthropology, the institution shapes national understanding of the country’s past and cultural complexity. Its collections document Indigenous heritage, settler experiences, and the diverse communities that comprise modern Canada.
The museum’s mandate to promote Canadian heritage while supporting scholarly research positions it as both a public forum and an academic resource.
Key facts
- Country: Canada
- City: Gatineau, Quebec
- Building size: 75,000 square metres (810,000 square feet)
- Architect: Douglas Cardinal
- Collection: Over 3 million artifacts and documents
- Current name adopted: 2013
- Location opened: 1989
Practical information & getting there
The museum is located in Gatineau, Quebec, on the north shore of the Ottawa River. Visit the institution’s website for current exhibition schedules, hours, admission fees, and visitor services. The museum offers both in-person and online exhibitions, including the Virtual Museum of New France.
Sources & resources
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