This vast recreational area is situated in the eastern part of Montreal, which was known in the past as the city of Maisonneuve. Created by wealthy Francophone businessmen, the prosperous community launched a program of development during the late 19C, erecting grandiose mansions such as the Château Dufresne along its wide boulevards. The exorbitant cost drove Maisonneuve into bankruptcy, and the city was annexed to Montreal in 1918. Today, dominated by the striking silhouette of the Olympic Park, the area is home to Montreal's Botanical Garden and the 204ha/504 acre Maisonneuve Park.