Île Jésus

Île Jésus is the second-largest island in the Hochelaga Archipelago, part of the Greater Montreal area in Quebec, Canada. It is separated from the Island of Montreal by the Rivière des Prairies. Geographically, it lies north of Montreal Island.

The entire island comprises the city of Laval, Quebec, which was created through the amalgamation of 14 municipalities in 1965. Prior to this amalgamation, the island consisted of several towns and villages, each with its own distinct identity. These included Laval-des-Rapides, Pont-Viau, Chomedey, Sainte-Rose, and Fabreville.

Historically, Île Jésus was primarily an agricultural region. However, since the latter half of the 20th century, it has experienced significant urbanization and suburban development, becoming a major residential, commercial, and industrial center.

The island is accessible by several bridges connecting it to Montreal Island and the mainland. These bridges include Highway 15 (Autoroute des Laurentides), Highway 19 (Autoroute Papineau), and Highway 25 (Autoroute Transcanadienne). The Montreal Metro's Orange Line also extends to Laval, providing direct access to downtown Montreal.

Île Jésus derives its name from the Jesuit order, who were granted seigneurial rights over the island in the 17th century. The name translates to "Jesus Island."