This is the Rotunda (Confederation Hall) of Centre Block.
The Rotunda sits in between the House of Commons and the Senate. Around the base of the column (the column is a Christmas tree this time of the year!) is a mariner’s compass. The compass has waves and represents the importance of water to Canada.
This place is filled with history and symbolism. There are symbols and coats of arms of each province and territory. On the column there’s an inscription dedicated to those who served in WWI.