Cabot Tower, St. John`s

Cabot Tower, located at the highest point of Signal Hill National Historic Site of Canada, is a remarkable tower tower that stands proudly, overlooking the city and the ocean, and is composed of a two-storey, square building with an octagonal tower rising from its southeast corner.

Designated as a Classified Federal Heritage Building, Cabot Tower holds historical significance due to its associations and its role in the evolution of communications in Canada. The tower was originally used for signaling purposes until 1958 and is closely associated with Guglielmo Marconi, who achieved the first trans-Atlantic transmission of the human voice at Signal Hill in 1920. Marconi, a Nobel Prize laureate in physics and communication, played a pivotal role in advancing long-distance wireless transmission.

Furthermore, Cabot Tower serves as a monument commemorating John Cabot's 1497 voyage to North America and celebrating the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign. Its symbolic value extends beyond its historical connections, as it has become an iconic representation of Newfoundland. Positioned at the highest point of Signal Hill, the tower defines the character of the area and stands out prominently within its natural surroundings. Its visual prominence and distinctive silhouette make it easily recognizable and widely associated with the region. The tower's symbol has permeated public consciousness, appearing in various forms such as commercials, calendars, postcards, pins, books, and tourism materials.

Architecturally, Cabot Tower exemplifies the work of William Howe Greene, a notable architect from St. John's and an associate of the Royal Institute of British Architects. With his extensive portfolio in St. John's, the tower stands as a significant example of his craftsmanship and design.