It and Quebec city, founded at the same time in the 17th century, are the nation's oldest cities. Montreal is a financial and manufacturing center and seaport. Outside the high-rise towers of the central business district, the influence of French architecture and culture are evident. The 19th-century buildings of Old Montreal provide a view of the city's vibrant past. Farther down the St. Lawrence, Sept-Iles handles more tonnage, but Montreal receives more than 4,000 ships annually, and the majority of Canada's European exports and imports pass through its harbor.
Powerful icebreakers keep a channel clear so that the port is open to shipping all year.
When the St. Lawrence Seaway was opened in 1959 under joint operation by the governments of Canada and the United States, it was hoped that the large cities bordering the Great Lakes would enjoy a substantial economic benefit. High user fees and the fact that much of the seaway is frozen shut during the winter months, however, have led to a continued heavy reliance on the rail and road transportation networks in both countries. Since 1971 Toronto in particular has had the volume of goods passing through its harbor decrease by 30 percent. Unlike Montreal, there is no concentration of historic buildings in downtown Toronto. Huge office towers bear witness instead to the financial vigor of the city.