Princess or Princes’?
Toronto’s Famous Gates at Exhibition Grounds: Here are some fun facts… plus the name of the highly anticipated film series using it as a film location up until the end of August. Hint? It’s produced by Jay-Z and Michael B. Jordan.
It’s a common misconception to call the gates at Exhibition Grounds the Princess Gates, but these Princes’ Gates are named after two princes: Edward, Prince of Wales and Prince George, who officially opened the gates in 1927.
Why Were These Built Anyway?
They were built to commemorate the 60th anniversary of our Canadian Confederation. It boasts a Central Roman arch flanked by 9 columns each representing 9 provinces of Canada (Newfoundland joined later in 1949).
And the Statue On Top?
The Winged Victory statue pridefully perches atop the arch, holding our maple leaf. She is accompanied by figures that stand for progress, industry, education, agriculture, and the arts.
First World War veterans were the first group to pass through the gates in 1927.
Here’s 1 More Fact For You
The gates were built with precast concrete, which was at the forefront of architectural technology in Toronto at that time.
Wait. You Promised to Tell Us About the Filming Stuff.
So! Which Film Series is actively using the Princes’ Gates as a filming spot?
It’s the upcoming biopic about Muhammad Ali called, “The Greatest”, actively filming here as well as other locations throughout our city. It will be released on Amazon’s Prime Video. Be sure to keep an eye out for our gates.