La Citadelle of Quebec

The historic district of Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of its star attractions is La Citadelle – a massive fortress that is a majestic symbol of the city’s proud military tradition. The defensive stone walls and ramparts that stretch for three miles were built to protect Quebec City from aggressors. It remains the only fortified city in North America.

The History

Situated on the summit of Cap Diamant which is the highest point of the city, La Citadelle covers 37 acres. Construction of the outer stone walls began in 1820 to protect the city from the potential threat of American invasion, under the supervision of British Lieutenant-Colonel Elias Walker Durnford of the Royal Engineers. After three decades the buildings within the walls of the fortress were complete. The towering height allowed guards the advantage of 360 degree visibility over potential attackers.

The Military Base

As the main headquarters for the Royal 22nd Regiment , the Vandoos, La Citadelle still serves as an active military base. Created in 1914, this distinguished band of the Canadian Armed Forces has fought in many battles ranging from World War I to the current mission in Afghanistan. Weather permitting, traditional ceremonies are performed by the regiment during the summer season. Visitors can observe the Changing of the Guard which takes place every day at 10am, led by the regiment’s mascot Batisse the goat. And the Beating of the Retreat, a military ceremony used since the 16 th century to summon the troops back to the castle at sunset, takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sundays at 7pm.

The Military Museum

In the southern corner of La Citadelle, a museum dedicated to the Vandoos was created in 1950 in an 18 th century ammunitions storehouse. This military museum houses a wide collection of artifacts spanning over 300 years of history, including a vast array of prestigious medals like the Victoria Cross. The museum also boasts over 600 firearms, hand weapons and artillery, as well as war uniforms, historical military maps and dozens of 19 th and 20 th century sculptures, prints and paintings.

The Governor General's Residence

La Citadelle has been the second official Residence for the Governor General of Canada since 1872 and the site of many historical events, including the pivotal meetings between Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt and William Lyon MacKenzie during World War II. Decorated with works of Canadian art, visitors can tour the regal Official State Rooms of the residence where the Governor General greets visiting dignitaries.

Visting La Citadelle

La Citadelle offers spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River, the Old Port, and Quebec City’s landscape. Because it is an active military base, visitors must take a guided tour to explore the fortress and its buildings, the military museum, and a prison dating back to 1842. The 60 minute tour provides the history of the attacks that led to the fortification of the city and the building of the fortress.

Daily guided tours of La Citadelle are available year-round, with more frequency in the summer months. A detailed schedule is available at La Citadelle official website www.lacitadelle.qc.ca.

General admission is $10 for adults, $9 for students and seniors, and $5.50 for children 7-17. Admission for children under 7 is free. Special rates are available for families and large groups. Guided tours of the Governor General's residence are free.

Access to La Citadelle is via the Côte de la Citadelle, near the St. Louis gate.

To book call 418-648-4322 or 1-866-936-4422.

For more information, call (418) 694-2815 or email information@laCitadellele.qc.ca

Click here to visit La Citadelle of Quebec official website