Quote:
Originally Posted by TownGuy
The interior of Gare Centrale is top notch but the exterior is so beyond ugly that it is disqualified from being considered best in Canada.
The first time I took VIA to Montreal I was confused upon taking my return train as I couldn't believe this was the actual train station. Must not have been paying attention when I arrived.
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I've covered this topic before, but just to clarify:
This is central station, an early modernist/streamline modern/internationalist building built off-grade and isolated from the street:
CN has developed all sites around the station, so nowadays you can only see the back of the station:
20151102_123439 by
Rommheim, on Flickr
you can see here the station (right) and the parkade (left)
20151102_123412 by
Rommheim, on Flickr
The 1960's parkade on Gauchetiere street unfortunately fronts as the station, even though it is not the same structure at all. And this is my main beef with CS, it's hard to tell where the entrances are, and most people (locals alike) probably think the hideous bunker is the actual station. My hope is that one day, the parkade is torn down and replaced by a proper street-level entrance that is imposing and beautiful. Incidentally, the site where the parkade currently is would be an ideal site for a 210m tower.