Quebec City is the only fortified city north of Mexico, with a historical character, promising a beautiful sightseeing experience. Explore the Citadel, where you might catch Canadian troops performing a military ceremony. Quebec city also is the capital city of the province of Quebec. Much of the business here is of the administrative and bureaucratic nature, which would normally make a city quite single faced. Fortunately, the city has a remarkable history, as it was a fortress capital of New France since the 16th century. The city was declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. Although the day-to-day life keeps things a little sleepy, the historical centre will provide a memorable visit.
Quebec really is a unique city, for a city on the American Continent. It is literally a piece of Europe brought next to the Lawrence river. The center of city is fortified, hence the fortress background, and inside a living museum. Houses from 17th century, museums, narrow streets, even the ground paving reminds you of the Old Land. Should you be interested in getting a bit deeper into the history, visit the Museum of French America and learn from their exhibits about life back in a day.
Do not forget to take a look at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac the monumental picture very friendly castle, built in early 17th century. Its original purpose was the governors residence, but since 1920’s, it is a luxurious hotel that has welcomed guests like Queen Elizabeth, Winston Churchill or Franklin Delano Roosevelt. La Citadelle is a fortress on the highest point of the city, and has played a significant role in the French - British misunderstandings about the land ownership. Original purpose - protection of the port, has transformed into the general-governors residence and a base of well known 22nd Regiment. This regiment goes deep into history as well and therefore a museum tracking its path throughout the history was established here. This museum is occasionally available for tours.
Quebec city is rising up, no doubt about that, a simple historic town has changed over the past years. New shopping centers, tourist free zones, many museums offer bilingual information and local cuisine has been compared to Paris’s. There were times, when Quebec was considered a 1-2 day trip but today about 10,000,000 people a year come to discover its beauties. And it certainly takes longer than that.
