Day 14 - Olympia 1976

Sun, 08/05/18

Let me start by saying that today we walked over 23km. That means we covered quite a distance. But not just today, because our average daily distance walked in August is 19km.

But now, let's talk about today: We managed to get up and have our daily ritual. Now we're heading to the city and hopefully to the Notre Dame Basilica (where Celine Dion got married in 1994, for example). When we arrive, there's already a long line. Looks like we'll have to wait. We won't get another chance. The line moves pretty quickly, but the sun and the heat are quite oppressive. But then, we're in.

Many people were involved in the construction of the church. Therefore, the structures, ornaments, windows, organ, etc. are quite impressive. We leave the cool church and catch one last glimpse from the square in front. Interestingly, the first and oldest skyscraper in Montreal (built in 1888) is located right next to this square.

It's afternoon now and our final destination is about 5km away. So we better get going. On our way there, we make a quick sandwich stop at Parc de la fountain, another beautiful green spot in the middle of the city. And soon we arrive at our desired location: the Olympic Park of the 1976 Summer Games. Of course, the Olympic Stadium is the most impressive, visible from afar. We stroll around a bit and eventually make our way to the entrance hall. Thanks to perfect timing once again, we catch the very last stadium tour. Our guide takes us through the exhibition, the swimming pool, and finally into the stadium.

Just imagine standing in the very places where the best athletes of that time performed. What an atmosphere it must have been: 10,000 spectators in the swimming pool or 70,000 in the stadium during competitions. It's interesting to know that the facilities are still in use today, although for different purposes. The stadium has been slightly modified to be multipurpose. Sometimes the Toronto Blue Jays (baseball) or the Montreal Alouettes (football) play here. It is also frequently used for concerts (including Michael Jackson, ACDC, Guns 'n Roses, Metallica, Celine Dion) or other events (monster truck games, papal visits, or trade fairs).

What many people don't know is that the Olympic Tower was not yet built during the games due to delays and strikes. The games almost took place in Munich again (as in 1972). Luckily, the IOC decided on Montreal after all.

But enough about that, now it's time to head back to the city - a long walk awaits. One thing's for sure, we definitely didn't take too few steps today ;)