PAC 2026: Treaty of the Great Peace 1701

  

The Treaty of the Great Peace of Montréal 
was signed on August 4, 1701

Pointe-à-Callière commemorates the Great Peace of Montréal

August 8 – September 26, 2026

Exactely 325 years ago, Montréal hosted one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in the history of North America.

Today, the Pointe-à-Callière (PAC), Montréal’s archaeology and history complex, is celerating the 325th anniversary of the signing of the Great Peace of Montréal, an exceptional agreement between 38 Indigenous nations and representatives of New France signed in 1701 on the very site of the Pointe-à-Callière Museum.

As part of the commemorations of this pivotal event in the city’s history, the Museum is presenting an interpretive tour that provides further insight into the peace process, marked by exchanges, negotiations, travel, and rituals. It also highlights objects that bear witness to this period of history, including wampum beads and fragments of peace pipes, some of which were discovered at the Museum’s archaeological site. The visit culminates at Fort Ville-Marie with the exhibition of the only known copy of the treaty, an exceptional loan from the Archives nationales d’outre-mer.

The Great Peace of Montréal: A Major Diplomatic Event

To this day, the Great Peace remains one of the most important diplomatic gatherings in North American history! At the time, there were only 1,200 inhabitants in Montréal. But on August 4, 1701, more than 1,300 representatives from 38 Indigenous nations, along with French and Canadian representatives, met at the Callière estate to make peace and bring an end to nearly a century of conflict.

However, the challenge was a considerable one. There was an extraordinary continental dimension to the gathering, given the geographical extent of the participants’ provenance—the entire northeast of the American continent. This historic meeting gave rise to an unprecedented opportunity for discussion, alliance, and negotiation. Together, the participants signed the Treaty of the Great Peace of Montréal.

For the first time the signed document is presented to the public in a vertical position, so that both sides of the four pages are exposed to the visitors.

The document is old and fragile, and for that reason the enclosure where it is displayed is dark. No photo flash is permitted.

The Architects of the Great Peace

This peace agreement is the result of a collective process that rallied a great number of stakeholders: delegates from Indigenous nations, French representatives, and interpreters who facilitated the exchanges between peoples with different languages and cultures.
 
Key figures at this event included, among others, the Wendat chief Kondiaronk, known for his political influence and oratorical skills, whose leadership was crucial both before and during the negotiations. Also present was Louis-Hector de Callière, Governor of Montréal—and later, Governor General of New France—, who played an important diplomatic role throughout the Great Peace process. The meetings with ambassadors that led to the conclusion of this historic treaty notably took place at Callière’s residence.

 

A Major Turning Point in Montréal’s history

In bringing an end to several decades of conflict, the Great Peace established a period of stability lasting approximately 60 years, contributing to the development of trade and reinforcing Montréal’s strategic role on the continent. More than three centuries after its signing, the Great Peace of Montréal remains a benchmark for dialogue, negotiation, and coexistence between peoples. The commemoration of the 325^th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of this treaty, as well as the current relevance of the values it embodies: listening, diplomacy, and the search for lasting peace.

Summer Programming Relating to the Great Peace of Montréal
 
Cultural Activities
On Sundays during the summer, enjoy free activities for the whole family, including the one on August 9^th, which will mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples! (Free – Outdoors – 1 pm to 4 pm)
 
18^th Century Public Market
A summer highlight, the 33^rd edition of the Public Market will be themed around the Corn Festival. This impressive re-creation of a market day in Montréal under the French Regime is brought to life by various authentic characters who frequented the market, with numerous activities taking place throughout the event. (Free – Outdoors – Saturday, August 29 – 10 am to 7 pm || Sunday, August 30 – 10 am to 6 pm)

Acknowledgements
The exhibition of the Great Peace treaty is made possible through the exceptional collaboration of the Archives nationales d’outre-mer de France, in partnership with Air Canada Cargo and Hôtel Saint-Sulpice.

All photos @Nadia Slejskova

Click on any image for photo gallery. 

 

For more information visit the Pointe-à-Callière museum website.

www.pacmusee.qc.ca

About
Inaugurated in 1992, on the city’s 350^th anniversary, Pointe-à-Callière is today the largest archaeology museum in Canada and the busiest history museum in Montréal. Rising above a concentrated number of historic and archaeological sites of national significance—including the birthplace of Montréal—, the Museum has a mission to preserve its collections and to further knowledge, while showcasing and fostering an appreciation for Montréal’s archaeological and historical heritage. This mission is carried out through various activities focused on conservation, research, presentation, education, and inclusion, along with community initiatives benefiting both Montrealers and visitors to the city. Pointe-à-Callière, proud partner of the City of Montréal. 

   

PAC 2026: Heroes of Greece. The Age of Troy

 

HEROES OF GREECE - THE AGE OF TROY
  

June 4, 2026 - March 7, 2027

 

Pointe-à-Callière, the Montréal’s archaeology and history complex, had announced the opening of the new exhibition Heroes of  Greece. The Age of Troy. Guided by the Iliad, the legendary epic featuring heroes and powerful gods and goddesses, this major exhibition explores the origin and legacy of this seminal work attributed to the poet Homer. At the crossroads of myth and reality, the exhibition immerses visitors in history, showcasing nearly 400 authentic objects—treasures of Greece—from 28 Greek museums and archaeological sites. Several works are being presented on display for the first time in North America. 

 

The exhibition presents some of the greatest historical and literary adventures: the Trojan War, Homer’s heroes and the gods of Olympus—a heroic saga of human passions and divine conflicts. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the origins of the myth and discover the secrets behind this epic that has shaped the Greek imagination and left its influence on the Western world and many civilizations throughout the centuries. It unveils unique pieces that give visitors a chance to explore a fascinating narrative and follow the paths of its protagonists. These pieces also shed light on the historical and cultural contexts in which these writings were relayed and disseminated. 

 Anne Élisabeth Thibault, Executive Director of Pointe-à-Callière, stated:

"It is always a great source of pride to host a large-scale international exhibition at Pointe-à-Callière. Seeing these objects brought together in one place is an exceptional event, made possible through a collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic (Greece) and several museums. Beyond their beauty, these objects embody the enduring legacy of Homeric myth, inviting visitors to encounter Achilles, Odysseus, and Helen. It is fascinating to see how these narratives, over 3,000 years old, remain relevant today and how their heroes continue to move us. Rarely has Greece agreed to lend a heritage collection of such magnitude to a museum in North America, making this exhibition a major cultural happening and an exceptional museum event." 

 

A Journey Between Myth and Historical Reality

To begin, the exhibition opens by introducing the visitors to the great figures of the Iliad: Helen, Paris, Agamemnon, Achilles, Ajax, Hector, and other protagonists whose epic journeys is revealed throughout the exhibition.

The visit then leads to an exploration of the poet Homer—an enigmatic figure if ever there was one—to whom this work is attributed. Opinions are divided: Was Homer the sole author? Did he really exist? The exhibition reveals the era in which he is believed to have lived: the Iron Age (c. 1100–800 BCE), a period marked by social upheaval and the emergence of ironwork. Authentic amphorae, oinochoai, lekythoi, skyphos (all distinct types of ancient Greek pottery, weapons, and statuettes bear witness to this pivotal period in Greek history, from which Homer introduces elements in the Iliad.

 

The journey continues on Mount Olympus, home of the gods and goddesses, where we meet the true instigators of the Trojan War. They directly intervene in the fate of mortals, supporting or opposing the heroes. Zeus, Hera, Athena, Aphrodite, Apollo, and Poseidon reveal their central role through impressive statues and artifacts!

 

 

Leaving the exhibition’s ground floor and ascending to the first floor, the visitors will step back in time, nearly 400 years before Homer’s era, the period that inspired the Iliad and during which the Trojan War is believed to have taken place. The exhibit delves into the heart of the rich and powerful Mycenaean civilization of the Bronze Age (1600–1200 BCE). Reflecting a time of great prosperity, the objects on display illustrate the exceptional know-how of Mycenaean artisans of that period, as well as their way of life: gold ornaments, exquisite jewelry, weapons, and figurines.

  

Towards the end, the exhibition takes the visitors to the heart of major episodes of the conflict that took place in Troy, from its origin to the fall of the city, all revealed through original illustrations and exceptional artifacts.

 

 

 A Greek-Canadian Mission to Argilos

Located in northern Greece, Argilos is one of the oldest Greek colonies. Since 1992, the Canadian Institute in Greece—which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year—has been conducting a Greek-Canadian archaeological mission at the site. The Argilos site has revealed the remains of a prosperous city, with shops, residential areas, and infrastructure that bear witness to its economic vitality. Several artifacts discovered at Argilos are featured in the exhibition.

 

Complementing the exhibition this summer

GUIDED TOURS

The Museum offers guided tours during which visitors can explore the exhibition and ask questions:

• Guided tours (20 min.) / every day (schedules at the reception counter)

• Visitor’s booklet for families 

LECTURES

• The Archaeology of Mycenaean, Bronze Age, and Iron Age Civilizations, with Jacques Y. Perreault, Professor in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences — Department of History and Director of the Canadian Institute in Greece / Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 7 pm

The lecture series will continue with a rich program in the fall of 2026.

EVENT

The summer Apéro-Expo event will offer a unique opportunity to visit the exhibition in a friendly and festive atmosphere with a DJ, access to the Museum’s rooftop terrace, and flavours of the Greek islands.

• Apéro-Expo / Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

On Sundays during the summer, enjoy free Heroic Greece themed activities for the whole family. Activities include myths and legends, drawing, dancing, and music!

• Family Sundays: July 12, 19, and 26 and August 16 and 23, 2026, from 1 pm to 4 pm

See the complete program on Pointe-à-Callière’s website : www.pacmusee.qc.ca 

  

Acknowledgements

The exhibition Heroes of Greece. The Age of Troy is a joint production of Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal’s archaeology and history complex, and the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic (Greece). In partnership with Desjardins – Caisse du Centre-Ville-de-Montréal, Air Canada Cargo, YUL – Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, Tourisme Montréal, St-Sulpice Hotel, and La Presse. The Museum sincerely thanks its lenders, sponsors, and partners.

 

All photos in this article @ Nadia Slejskova

This article's dedicated internet address. 

 

About Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex

Inaugurated in 1992, on the city’s 350th anniversary, Pointe-à-Callière is today the largest archaeology museum in Canada and the busiest history museum in Montréal. Rising above a concentrated number of historic and archaeological sites of national significance—including the birthplace of Montréal, the Museum has a mission to preserve its collections and to further knowledge, while showcasing and fostering an appreciation for Montréal’s archaeological and historical heritage. This mission is carried out through various activities focused on conservation, research, presentation, education, and inclusion, along with community initiatives benefiting both Montrealers and visitors to the city. Pointe-à-Callière is a partner of the City of Montréal.

 

 

PAC 2025: Sherlock Holmes

SHERLOCK HOLMES: CRACKING THE CASE

Delve into the mysterious domain of the world’s most famous detective and his author!

November 27, 2025 - March 8, 2026

Pointe-à-Callière extends the exhibition
until March 29, 2026 

The Montreal’s Pointe-à-Callière, the Archaeology and History Complex, presents a new exhibion Sherlock Holmes: Cracking the Case The visitors will discover writer Arthur Conan Doyle and his legendary detective, Sherlock Holmes. At the same time it reveals a surprising connection to Montréal and the early days of police investigation.

Embarking on an immersive historical journey, visitors will make their way to the late-19th century London, the author’s source of inspiration. It was an era marked by scientific progress and the development of investigative techniques. The exhibition also features personal items that belonged to Conan Doyle, some of which are being presented exclusively in North America.

Anne Élisabeth Thibault, the Executive Director, Pointe-à-Callière, stated:

“We are delighted to present this major international exhibition dedicated to Sherlock Holmes. It immerses visitors in every aspect of Conan Doyle’s work and allows us to draw a parallel with a little-known chapter in the city’s history: the creation of the Montréal Detective Bureau. Among the items on display are authentic manuscripts, Arthur Conan Doyle’s actual desk, which has just been restored, his quill, his inkwell, as well as unique objects from the author’s time in Montréal.”

ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE AND 19th CENTURY LONDON

A physician, writer, and traveler, Arthur Conan Doyle drew on his personal experiences to fuel his imagination. He was also inspired by his era—the Victorian golden age—thaytwas marked by industrial, cultural, and scientific transformations (ballistics, telecommunications, photography, botany, etc.). This rich context allowed him to shape the world of Sherlock Holmes, a detective “of his time” with an atypical personality and vast general knowledge that enabled him to make connections between various disciplines. The character is renowned for his unique investigative methods, using the methodical analysis of clues and scientific experimentation to solve crimes—at a time when the police were still hesitant to adopt these forensic approaches.

With four novels, 56 short stories, and countless adaptations for the stage and screen over more than a century, Sherlock Holmes has become the archetype of the detective, an iconic character recognized throughout the world and rooted in the collective imagination.

A STOP IN MONTRÉAL: THE BIRTH OF INVESTIGATIVE POLICING

In this exhibition, Pointe-à-Callière is also taking a unique look at Montréal police at the turn of the 20th century as they faced increased activity in organized crime, the red-light district, and the opium trade. Following London’s lead, Montréal was increasingly influenced by the exciting advancements in European police investigation, with its law enforcement agencies becoming more institutionalized and professional. The era of Sherlock Holmes coincided with the beginnings of investigative policing, the creation of the Montréal Detective Bureau, and the establishment of the first forensic science laboratory in North America. This is an opportunity to learn more about Detective Silas Carpenter, a true Sherlock Holmes from Québec!

AN EXHIBITION THAT MAKES YOU THE DETECTIVE!

Strolling through immersive, life-size settings, the visitors will get to follow in Sherlock Holmes’ footsteps to solve a unique criminal case! Every clue means something! Observation, evidence, analysis… visitors will have to put their detective skills to the test to unravel the mystery. A fun and captivating experience, with a focus on Holmes’ reasoning and ingenuity.

COMPLEMENTING THE EXHIBITION

Cultural Activities
Explore the astonishing world of Sherlock Holmes and extend your exhibition visit:
-Holidays on the Pointe (December 27 to 30, 2025 and January 2 to 3, 2026)
-Nuit blanche (February 28, 2026)
-Spring Break on the Pointe: Little Sherlocks (February 28 to March 6, 2026)

Lectures
The Museum is holding a series of lectures relating to the exhibition:
-Arthur Conan Doyle and Sherlock Holmes (Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 7 pm)
-Silas Carpenter, Montréal’s Sherlock Holmes (Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 7 pm)

Exhibition Booklet
Designed to help you crack the case, booklets are available free of charge at the reception counter:
-Youth Booklet (ages 6 and under)
-Booklet for all audiences

All photos in this article @ Nadia Slejskova

For more information visit the Pointe-à-Callière museum website.

www.pacmusee.qc.ca

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Sherlock Holmes: Cracking the Case is an exhibition presented by Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal’s Archaeology and History Complex, in collaboration with the Conan Doyle Estate Limited, developed from an original concept by Exhibits Development Group and Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates. The Museum thanks its sponsors: Air Canada Cargo, YUL-Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, Tourisme Montréal, Hotel Saint-Sulpice, and La Presse. The Museum sincerely thanks its lenders, sponsors, and partners.

ABOUT POINTE-À-CALLIÈRE, MONTRÉAL ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY COMPLEX

Inaugurated in 1992, on the city’s 350th anniversary, Pointe-à-Callière is today the largest archaeology museum in Canada and the busiest history museum in Montréal. Rising above a concentrated number of historic and archaeological sites of national significance—including the birthplace of Montréal—, the Museum has a mission to preserve its collections and to further knowledge, while showcasing and fostering an appreciation for Montréal’s archaeological and historical heritage. This mission is carried out through various activities focused on conservation, research, presentation, education, and inclusion, along with community initiatives benefiting both the Montrealers and the visitors to the city. Pointe-à-Callière, proud partner of the City of Montréal.