4Montreal’s RESO, Canada

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.