Architect William Footner was inspired by the Palladian style of The Custom House in Dublin when he designed Bonsecours Market. Beneath the silver dome was Old Montreal’s main farmers’ market from 1847 until 1963. Marché Bonsecours also had the distinction of hosting the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada in 1849 and serving as city hall from 1852 until 1878. Today, this National Historic Site of Canada is a quaint mall with cafes, restaurants and specialty shops.
