When you visit Ottawa, Canada's capital, make sure to take a quiet moment at Reconciliation: The Peacekeeping Monument. Completed in 1992, this striking public work honors Canada's international peacekeeping role and remembers the brave soldiers living and dead who have participated. Designed by artist Jack Harman alongside architects Richard Henriquez and Gregory Henriquez, with landscape architecture by Cornelia Oberlander, the monument offers a powerful visual message of hope and resolution.
As you explore, you will see three sculpted peacekeeping soldiers—two men and one woman—standing atop two stone ridges. These ridges dramatically cut through the broken debris of war, converging at a high point that symbolizes peacekeeping's resolution. Below, you can read an inspiring 1956 quote from Lester Pearson, inscribed in both English and French, calling for an international peace force.
Situated right in the intersection where St. Patrick Street and Murray Street meet Mackenzie Avenue and Sussex Drive, you will find it just south of the National Gallery of Canada and north of Major's Hill Park and the American Embassy. This moving landmark—once commemorated on Canada's 1995 one-dollar coin—is a meaningful addition to your itinerary.
What to see at Peacekeeping Monument
- Statues of three peacekeeping soldiers—two men and one woman—sculpted by Jack Harman.
- Stone ridges cutting through war debris to converge at a high point symbolizing peace.
- Inscribed 1956 Lester Pearson quote presented in both English and French.
- Site design by architects Richard and Gregory Henriquez with landscape architect Cornelia Oberlander.
Visiting tips
Combine your visit to the monument with a walk to the adjacent National Gallery of Canada or Major's Hill Park.
How long: 15-30 minutes · Best time: Daylight hours
How to get there & what’s nearby
Peacekeeping Monument is easy to reach on Ottawa’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Rideau Hall and Bank of Canada Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Ottawa travel guide.
See the full Ottawa travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.