LesChroniquesduVieux:HistoryNeverGetsOld

This summer, history invites itself into your feed

From July 29 to August 24, 27 video capsules will take you through the eastern part of the district via portraits of notable figures, surprising places and juicy anecdotes. Right from the first capsule, we "dive," quite literally, into the heart of the matter, beneath Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, where archaeological digs have revealed traces of human occupation dating back more than 3,000 years. The 26 capsules that follow, also released daily on the SDC Vieux-Montréal's social media, are just as promising — good reason to subscribe so you don't miss a thing.

From the screen to real life

Love these short videos as much as we do? Good news! Rain or shine (dress accordingly!), guides Pierre and Sarah, who helped make Season 1 such a success, are back for Season 2's capsules — and, exclusively, will be there in person to expertly lead you as you make your way through the streets of the Bonsecours area! Whether with family, friends or solo, don't miss these fun, informative excursions led by true neighbourhood enthusiasts. The activity is free, but spots are limited, so reservations are required. Tours led by Pierre will be held on August 5, 7, 13, 19, 21 and 27, starting at the Château Ramezay. Tours with Sarah will take place on August 6, 12, 14, 20, 26 and 28, departing from Marché Bonsecours.

Bonsecours, with Love: the heart of Season 2

Season 2 of Les Chroniques du Vieux delves into a part of the old quarter that is in the midst of considerable transformation and especially rich in history: the Bonsecours area. East of Place Jacques-Cartier, between Saint-Antoine and De la Commune streets, the neighbourhood reveals its secrets and its architecture, as well as how it has adapted over time to different eras, needs, and to human activity. Pierre and Sarah, keen historians and gifted storytellers, have done outstanding work in drawing out unique episodes from their research on this little-known yet undeniably dynamic corner of the district.

Once was good, twice is better

Season 1 of Les Chroniques du Vieux, in fall 2025, focused on the Saint-Paul Street West area and exceeded all expectations the SDC and its partners had for its popularity. The public's enthusiasm, more than 4.7 million cumulative views, glowing comments, and the Distinction Award bestowed by Tourisme Montréal, convinced the SDC Vieux-Montréal to return to screens, and even to the streets, this year, to keep fuelling interest in history and the appeal of the district among audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Digital or analog, it's with you that the story of Old Montreal keeps being written, so by all means, join us online or right here on the ground in the neighbourhood!

The second edition of the Les Chroniques du Vieux project — an initiative included in the SDC Vieux-Montréal's Targeted Interventions Program — was made possible through the financial support of the City of Montreal, with the goal of enhancing the overall appeal of the Bonsecours area.