Haci Bayram Mosque | Ankara

Information

Landmark: Haci Bayram Mosque
City: Ankara
Country: Turkey
Continent: Asia

Haci Bayram Mosque, Ankara, Turkey, Asia

The Underground City, known as RESO, is a network of interconnected tunnels and pedestrian walkways located beneath the city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Visual Characteristics

RESO comprises a series of subterranean passages, primarily constructed from concrete and finished with various materials including tile, stone, and painted surfaces. The tunnels vary in width and height, accommodating pedestrian traffic, retail spaces, and access points to buildings. Lighting is predominantly artificial, provided by overhead fixtures. The overall aesthetic is functional, designed for efficient movement and commerce.

Location & Access Logistics

RESO connects directly to numerous buildings in Montreal's downtown core, including shopping centers, office towers, hotels, residential complexes, and metro stations. Access points are integrated into street-level entrances of these buildings and through dedicated metro station entrances. The network spans approximately 32 kilometers of tunnels. Parking is available in numerous underground garages associated with the connected buildings, with rates varying by location and duration. Public transport access is extensive via the Montreal Metro system, with multiple lines intersecting RESO at various stations, including McGill, Peel, Place-des-Arts, and Bonaventure.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The initial concept for RESO emerged in the 1960s, with the first section opening in 1967 in conjunction with Expo 67. The primary purpose was to create a climate-controlled pedestrian environment, shielding users from Montreal's harsh winter weather and facilitating movement between key urban points. It has since expanded organically through the development of new buildings and infrastructure, becoming a significant component of the city's urban planning.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the network, shopping at over 2,000 stores, dining at a wide range of restaurants and cafes, accessing cultural venues such as Place des Arts, and direct transit to major hotels and office buildings. Several metro stations offer direct access to different sections of RESO.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in various shopping centers and public areas within RESO. Shade is constant due to the subterranean nature. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout most of the network, though signal strength can vary in deeper sections. Food vendors and restaurants are abundant.

Best Time to Visit

RESO is accessible year-round, offering a consistent environment regardless of external weather conditions. For optimal shopping and dining experiences, weekdays during business hours are recommended. Weekends can be busy, particularly in retail areas. There are no tide requirements.

Facts & Legends

RESO is one of the largest underground pedestrian networks in the world, covering an estimated 4 million square feet of space. A lesser-known fact is that some sections were originally designed to serve as bomb shelters during the Cold War.