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Papua New Guinea
Monument · Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories
Papal Site Fort Simpson
Riverside field in Fort Simpson where Pope John Paul II met northern Indigenous peoples in 1987, marked by a large tent frame.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Papal Site Fort Simpson
In 1984, Pope John Paul II attempted to visit Fort Simpson to meet northern Indigenous peoples of Canada, but fog prevented the plane from landing. He promised to return and kept that promise in September 1987, on a special visit to the community.
The meeting took place in a riverside field on the Mackenzie, where a large tipi-shaped tent frame was erected and remains as a memorial. Thousands of people from Dene communities and other northern peoples came to the gathering.
From the site you can see the confluence of the Liard and Mackenzie Rivers, with waters of different colors running side by side before mixing. The field is used for cultural events and for the community’s annual summer gathering.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes.
Best time
From June to September, in the late afternoon, with light on the rivers.
How to get there
On the island’s riverbank, a few minutes’ walk from the centre.
Tip
Notice the different colors of the Liard and Mackenzie waters at the confluence, visible from the field.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Papal Site Fort Simpson
When did Pope John Paul II visit Fort Simpson?
In September 1987.
Why did the pope return to Fort Simpson?
Because in 1984 fog prevented the plane from landing and he promised to return.
What can you see from the papal site?
The confluence of the Liard and Mackenzie Rivers.