Maniwaki

Maniwaki is a town located in the La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau Regional County Municipality in the Outaouais region of Quebec, Canada. It is the largest community and the administrative centre of the RCM. Maniwaki is situated on the Gatineau River, approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) north of Gatineau.

The name "Maniwaki" is derived from the Algonquin language, meaning "Mary's Land." This refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and reflects the significant influence of the Catholic Church in the area's history and development.

Historically, the area was inhabited by Algonquin peoples. European settlement began in the early 19th century, spurred by the logging industry. The town experienced growth with the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century, further facilitating resource extraction and transportation.

Maniwaki serves as a service centre for the surrounding communities, offering a range of commercial, educational, and healthcare facilities. Forestry remains an important industry, alongside tourism, particularly related to outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The community also has a significant First Nations presence, with the nearby Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation influencing the cultural landscape.