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Typical Stairs in Montreal - Free Coloring Page

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Typical Staircases of Montreal 

This coloring page captures the iconic external staircases of Montreal, Canada, a distinctive architectural feature that sets the city apart. These staircases spiral up the exteriors of the city's older residential buildings, a design chosen to maximize interior living space in the narrow homes. They contribute to the urban fabric of Montreal, adding charm and character to the streets while serving as small gathering places for neighbors.

Did you know?

The external staircases of Montreal are not just a unique architectural choice but also have social significance. Originally built to avoid taking up valuable space inside the homes, they have become a symbol of Montreal's communal spirit. During winter, neighbors often help each other shovel snow off the stairs, reinforcing community bonds.
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Montreal, Canada's second most populous city with approximately 1.7 million residents, boasts a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1642 and incorporation in 1832. Today, it stands as a bustling hub for commerce, transportation, finance, technology, art, culture, tourism, and education.

French is the official language, with over 60% of Montrealers fluent in it, making the city the world's second-largest French-speaking metropolis, following Paris. Amidst the city's numerous beautiful buildings and historic landmarks, a unique feature stands out—its distinctive outdoor staircases.

These staircases, while intriguing and picturesque in summer, pose hazards during the harsh Montreal winters when ice accumulates. To combat this, Montrealers often scatter sand, salt, or gravel on the stairs to enhance traction.

These iconic staircases are commonly associated with "plex" buildings, which house multiple apartments (duplexes, triplexes, etc.). The "plex" format represents the standard form of housing in Montreal. This architectural style has its roots in the 19th century when various cultures converged on the city. Scottish immigrants introduced the concept of stacking residences atop one another, while the French tradition favored exterior stairs. This fusion led to the incorporation of stairways in plex buildings.

Moreover, building regulations of the time mandated limited distances between buildings and sidewalks, prompting architects to incorporate exterior staircases as a space-saving solution. Additionally, this design choice offered cost savings, as there was no need to heat these staircases during frigid winters.

Montreal's typical stairs thus bear witness to the city's rich architectural heritage, reflecting the influence of diverse cultures and the practicality of adapting to climatic challenges.