Verdun is a primarily residential neighborhood with a rich past dating back to the beginnings of New France making it one of Canada's oldest cities. As a result of its unique geographic situation along the Saint-Lawrence River, the borough's residents enjoy exceptional waterfront views and easy access to parks bordering the water.
History
Originally known as the Côte des Argoulets, the future city of Verdun served in the 17th century as a strategic fortification where the population took refuge during the frequent Iroquois attacks. Verdun was founded in 1671, taking its name from the 272 acres
Fief de Verdun that was granted by French military pioneer Zacharie Dupuis, a native of Saverdun in Ariège, located in southern France. In 1956, the upscale development of Nuns' Island was amalgamated with Verdun.
Geography
Verdun excellent location situated close to Downtown Montreal along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, separated by the Canal de l'Aqueduc. It is also located next to the Champlain Bridge, the main bridge from Montreal to the South Shore.
Demographics
The population of Verdun is roughly two-thirds French-speaking with a population of over 60,000 inhabitants.
Cityscape
Verdun consists of three neighborhoods; the lush West Verdun, downtown Verdun with its many long blocks of 3-story buildings characterized by winding staircases and balconies, and adjacent Nuns' Island. Wellington Street is the main commercial avenue with a wide range of shops and boutiques.
Highlights
Nuns' Island has become an exclusive residential community. offering a high-quality standard of urban living within a uniquely natural environment. Nuns' Island is just minutes from downtown Montréal.
Transportation
Verdun is served by Quebec Autoroutes 15 and 20. Nuns' Island is connected to the Island of Montreal and the South Shore via the Champlain Bridge. The Montreal Metro system was expanded to include Verdun served by the green line of the Montreal metro at the Verdun, De l'Église, and LaSalle stations.
Schools
Verdun students may choose to attend from among several of the local high schools in the area including Beurling Academy, which offers an International Program, LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School, both Lester B. Pearson School Board schools, or James Lyng, an English Montreal School Board high school.
Services
The extensive sport and recreation facilities in the borough include the Verdun Auditorium and Denis-Savard Arena, a hockey arena and concert hall; and the Verdun Natatorium, Québec’s first and largest outdoor pool. Verdun features parks with bicycle and walking paths along the shores of the Saint-Lawrence River and Canal de l'Aqueduc, and extending through the wilderness areas of Nuns' Island.
Links
www.ville.montreal.qc.ca
www.imtl.org