Known as La Ville Souterraine (The Underground City), Montreal’s RESO is an extensive network of interconnected tunnels and passageways stretching over 20 miles (32 kilometers). Established in the 1960s as a way to protect residents and visitors from the city’s harsh winters, RESO is now an expansive underground complex featuring shops, restaurants, hotels, office spaces, and metro stations, connecting nearly 80% of the buildings in downtown Montreal.
Unlike ancient underground cities, RESO is a modern marvel designed to offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to above-ground streets during the colder months. The city’s underground also hosts events, art displays, and cultural activities, making it a popular year-round attraction. RESO represents the evolution of underground spaces as functional, everyday environments, balancing convenience, safety, and architectural appeal.
