Carrera Café x Political history of Quebec
Parliament of Quebec: history, power, and parliamentary district
The Quebec Parliament Building is much more than a government building: it is a living museum of Quebec's political history, a majestic architectural work, and the beating heart of a democracy proud of its French roots. A must-visit to understand Quebec of yesterday and today.
Since 1886
The Parliament Building
The seat of Quebec's democratic power
Inaugurated in 1886, the Quebec Parliament Building is the seat of the National Assembly of Quebec. For over a century, it has been the stage for debates that have shaped Quebec society, from the Quiet Revolution to the major laws on the French language.
Foundation
The National Assembly of Quebec ★
The National Assembly of Quebec is one of the oldest democratic institutions in North America. Founded in 1791 with the creation of Lower Canada, it has sat successively in Quebec City, Montreal, and Toronto before finding its permanent home in the current Parliament Building. The 125 members who sit there today represent the entire Quebec population in all its diversity.
Political history
The great moments of parliamentary history
It was within these walls that the Quiet Revolution of the 1960s was legislatively accomplished, the Charter of the French Language was adopted in 1977, and the two referendums on Quebec sovereignty were debated. The Parliament Building is a privileged witness to the major transformations of contemporary Quebec society.
Prestigious architecture
An architectural masterpiece
The Second French Renaissance at the heart of Quebec
Designed by architect Eugène-Étienne Taché, the Parliament Building is considered one of the most beautiful government buildings in North America. Its facade adorned with sculptures representing the great figures of Quebec's history is a true open-air museum.
★ Heritage
The facade and its historic sculptures
The facade of the Parliament Building is adorned with 22 bronzes representing the most notable figures in Quebec's history: Jacques Cartier, Samuel de Champlain, Montcalm, Wolfe, Frontenac. These statues form a pantheon of Quebec history accessible to all, installed on Grande Allée so every passerby can contemplate those who built the province.
Interior
The historic rooms and the National Assembly
The interior of the Parliament Building is as remarkable as its facade. The Blue Room, where the National Assembly meets, is decorated with allegorical paintings and carved woodwork. The Red Room, the former Legislative Council chamber, is now used for major official receptions. These rooms are open for free guided tours throughout the year.
Free access
Visit the Quebec Parliament
A living museum of Quebec democracy
The Quebec Parliament offers free guided tours that allow visitors to discover the historic rooms, artworks, and political history of the province. An experience accessible to all, free and fascinating.
Guided tour
Free guided tours ★
Bilingual guides offer guided tours of the Parliament Building year-round, Monday to Friday. The tour lasts about an hour and covers the historic rooms, artworks from the permanent collection, and the institution's history. During the parliamentary session, it is sometimes possible to attend National Assembly debates from the public galleries.
Gardens
The National Assembly gardens
Around the Parliament Building, the carefully maintained gardens welcome visitors in every season. In summer, the Tourny fountain, gifted by the city of Bordeaux to Quebec on the city's 400th anniversary in 2008, is one of the most photographed ornaments on Grande Allée. In winter, the lights create a magical setting.
The parliamentary district
The addresses of Grande Allée and faubourg Saint-Jean-Baptiste
The parliamentary district, around Grande Allée and Cartier Avenue, offers a concentration of gastronomic and cultural addresses that make it one of the liveliest areas of Quebec.
★ Bookstore
Librairie Vaugeois: Books of Quebec
Just steps from Parliament, Librairie Vaugeois on Grande Allée is the go-to place for books on Quebec’s political, cultural, and social history. Its shelves are full of works on the Quiet Revolution, provincial leaders, and major parliamentary figures. A must-stop after visiting Parliament to deepen your knowledge.
Restaurant
Café du Parlement: On-site Cuisine
Inside the Parliament itself, Café du Parlement offers accessible Quebec cuisine in a unique historic setting. Open to visitors as well as deputies, it offers a selection of local dishes prepared with local products. A gastronomic experience in a place full of history, unmatched in Quebec.
Bar
Grande Allée Bars: Nightlife Buzz
Grande Allée is also known for its summer terraces and lively bars. In the evening, the terraces overflow with a mixed crowd including politicians, civil servants, and tourists. The atmosphere is relaxed and festive, very different from Old Quebec. Pub d'Orsay, slightly set back on Saint-Louis Street, offers a quieter yet equally authentic alternative.
Barista Tip
The Grand Political and Coffee Tour
After your visit to the Quebec Parliament and a walk along Grande Allée, head down to Petit-Champlain for a stop at Carrera Café. Our strong espresso or caramel latte reconnects you with the simple pleasure of a good coffee in an elegant setting. From democracy to the art of coffee, it’s just a step and a few cobblestone streets away.
From Parliament to Petit-Champlain
After your visit to the parliamentary district, Carrera Café welcomes you for a well-deserved break. Espresso, local specialty platter: the perfect fuel to continue your exploration of Quebec.
Our Menu
Find Us
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this item. Be the first to leave a message!