The Peace Tower, at a height of over 90 meters, was originally built and named in honor of the armistice of 1918 and the sacrifice of Canadians during the First World War. On September 1, 1919, the Prince of Wales laid the cornerstone of the tower and designated it the Victory Tower. The name Peace Tower was used during the 1927 celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of Confederation. Prime Minister Mackenzie King was keen on giving this important memorial a name that would match its role as a symbol of the principles for which Canada fought in the Great War, as well as the high aspirations of the Canadian people.
The present center block was designed by John A. Pearson and J.O. Marchand in an austere version of the Gothic style. When it was rebuilt a few years after the fire of 1916, the Gothic style was retained by the architects Pearson & Marchand, although updated to a Beaux-Arts axial plan with Gothic details.
Completed in 1928, the Peace Tower houses a 53-bell carillon, dedicated in remembrance of the sacrifice and service of Canadians in the First World War. The inauguration of the Peace Tower and its Carillon took place on July 1, 1927, by Governor General Viscount Willingdon.
Inside the Peace Tower is the Memorial Chamber, a space dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives in service to Canada.
