GUIDES & DISCOVERIES · MILITARY HERITAGE
The Citadelle of Quebec
Star-shaped fortress, royal residence, and symbol of the city
Perched atop Cap Diamant, the Citadelle of Quebec is the largest continuously occupied military fortress in Canada. From its bastions, the view of the St. Lawrence River and the Plains of Abraham is breathtaking. And every summer morning, the Changing of the Guard is celebrated there with a solemnity inherited from three centuries of military tradition.
Discover the CitadelleIn this article
History
Three centuries of fortification on Cap Diamant
The Citadelle as we see it today is mainly the work of British engineers from the early 19th century, but its history dates back to the earliest days of the French colony.
The French began to fortify Cap Diamant from the beginning of colonization, aware that this dominant position on the St. Lawrence River was the key to defending New France. The British, after the conquest of 1759, continued and amplified these fortifications, fearing a French counter-attack or an American invasion after the Revolution of 1776.
Construction of the current Citadelle began in 1820 and spanned thirty years. The star shape of the fortress, characteristic of Vauban's military architecture, allowed for covering all angles of attack without blind spots in defensive fire. Despite its impressive defensive power, the Citadelle was never attacked.
The Governor General of Canada
The Citadelle is one of two official residences of the Governor General of Canada (the other being in Ottawa). When the Governor General stays in Quebec, a special flag is hoisted over the fortress. Certain parts of the Citadelle therefore officially remain a residence of the Canadian Crown.
The Changing of the Guard
Summer's daily spectacle
Every summer morning, the Changing of the Guard of the Royal 22e Régiment is celebrated on the Citadelle's Place d'Armes with a precision and solemnity that attracts hundreds of visitors.
The Changing Ceremony
The Changing of the Guard takes place at 10 AM every morning from June 24th to Labour Day. The ceremony lasts approximately 35 minutes and includes the parade of soldiers in red uniforms and bearskin hats, the handing over of orders, and traditional military maneuvers. It is one of Canada's most photographed military ceremonies.
The Royal 22e Régiment
The "Van Doos" (from "vingt-deux" in English pronunciation) is the only French-speaking infantry regiment in the regular Canadian army. Founded in 1914, it participated in all major wars and conflicts involving Canada in the 20th century. Its history is inseparable from the identity of Quebec and French-speaking Quebec within the Canadian army.
Visit
Practical information and tips
The Citadelle is primarily visited through guided tours that provide access to areas normally closed to the public.
Guided Tours
Guided tours in French and English are offered from May to October. The tour lasts approximately one hour and covers the main historic buildings, the Royal 22e Régiment museum, and the bastions that offer panoramic views of the city. The guided tour is the only way to access the interior of the Citadelle.
Access and Fees
Entry to the Citadelle requires a fee. Access to the outer basins and the adjacent rampart promenade is free and can be done independently of the guided tour. Families with children particularly enjoy combining the Changing of the Guard with a guided tour, which lasts approximately two hours in total.
Before the Visit
Coffee before the bastions
A visit to the Citadelle ideally begins at the bottom of the cliff, in Petit-Champlain, before ascending to the heights.
Carrera Café, Ramparts, Citadelle
The perfect route: coffee at Carrera in Petit-Champlain, ascent via the funicular or the Breakneck Stairs, stroll along Dufferin Terrace, then access to the Citadelle via the Governors' Promenade. The gradual ascent provides a physical perspective on what it means to defend such a position.
Embark on a discovery of the Citadelle
Start your morning at Carrera Café, at the foot of the cliffs, before climbing towards the bastions overlooking the St. Lawrence.
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