Mount Royal Arena

Mount Royal Arena

The Mount Royal Arena, located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was a prominent ice hockey and figure skating venue. It was primarily used for Montreal Canadiens National Hockey League (NHL) games and Montreal's major figure skating events. The arena was also a popular venue for concerts, professional wrestling, and other sports events.

History

The Mount Royal Arena was built in 1937, with Montreal Mayor Camillien Houde overseeing its construction. The arena was designed to replace the Montreal Forum, which was the primary home of the Montreal Canadiens at the time. The construction of the arena was a significant event in Montreal's history, with many residents eagerly anticipating its opening. The arena was officially opened on December 9, 1937, with a Montreal Canadiens game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Design and Construction

The Mount Royal Arena was designed by architect Joseph Bondurant Ryan, who envisioned a state-of-the-art venue that would meet the needs of Montreal's growing sports community. The arena had a seating capacity of approximately 13,000 and featured a unique dome-shaped design. The construction of the arena was a major undertaking, requiring the labor of hundreds of workers and significant financial investment. The arena's design and construction were influenced by the Art Deco style, which was popular in Montreal during the 1930s.

Events and Usage

The Mount Royal Arena was used for a variety of events, including NHL games, figure skating competitions, and concerts. The arena was also used for professional wrestling events, featuring wrestlers such as Lou Thesz and Strangler Lewis. In addition to sports events, the arena hosted political rallies and charity events, including a 1940 rally for Winston Churchill. The arena was also used for ice hockey tournaments, including the 1950 World Ice Hockey Championships.

Closure and Legacy

The Mount Royal Arena was demolished in 1966, after serving as the home of the Montreal Canadiens for nearly 30 years. The arena was replaced by the Montreal Forum, which remained the primary home of the Montreal Canadiens until 1996. Despite its demolition, the Mount Royal Arena remains an important part of Montreal's history, with many residents still remembering the venue fondly. The arena's legacy continues to be celebrated through various historical societies and sports organizations, including the Montreal Canadiens Hall of Fame. Category:Demolished buildings and structures in Montreal