Designed by Albert E Westover, the American architect, the renowned Imperial Cinema opened its doors on April 25, 1913. The frescoes above the lobby are the work of William Eckhart, while Tognarelli and Voight were responsible for the decoration. The Province of Quebec’s Ministry of Culture and Communications officially recognized the Imperial Cinema as a historical monument in 2001.

Cultural center of the metropolis, the Quartier des Spectacles is home to, among others, Place des Arts, the Contemporary Art Museum, the Montreal Symphony House and the NFB. It welcomes, throughout the year, many festivals and cultural events.