Windsor Hotel (Montreal)

The Windsor Hotel, located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was a grand hotel that operated from 1878 until its closure in 1981. It was considered one of the city's, and indeed one of Canada's, most luxurious hotels during its heyday. Situated on Dominion Square (now Dorchester Square), it played a significant role in Montreal's social, political, and cultural life for over a century.

The hotel was commissioned by a group of prominent Montreal businessmen looking to create a world-class establishment. Its design was inspired by the grand hotels of Europe. The Windsor featured opulent interiors, including lavishly decorated ballrooms, dining rooms, and guest suites. It was known for its high-end amenities, attentive service, and its role as a gathering place for the elite.

Throughout its history, the Windsor Hotel hosted numerous distinguished guests, including royalty, heads of state, and celebrities. It also served as a venue for important social events, political conventions, and cultural performances. The hotel's central location and reputation made it a focal point for Montreal's business community.

After World War II, the hotel gradually declined, facing increased competition from newer, more modern hotels. Ownership changes and attempts to revitalize the property proved unsuccessful. The Windsor Hotel closed its doors in 1981. While the original building was demolished, the Windsor name lives on in the Windsor complex, a mixed-use development that incorporates some of the hotel's architectural elements. The Windsor Hotel is remembered as a significant piece of Montreal's history and a symbol of its past grandeur.