Old Quebec
| Old Quebec | |
|---|---|
| File:Old Quebec Street.png | |
| Cobblestone streets of Old Quebec | |
| Country | Canada |
| Province | Quebec |
| City | Quebec City |
| Founded | 1608 |
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | Designated in 1985 |
| Area | ~135 hectares |
Old Quebec (French: Vieux-Québec) is the historic district of Quebec City, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. It is the only remaining fortified city north of Mexico and is often described as the cradle of French civilization in North America.
History
Old Quebec traces its origins to 1608, when Samuel de Champlain founded the settlement at Cap Diamant. The district became the capital of New France and later witnessed the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759, which led to British control.
The area has retained its European charm through centuries, with narrow cobblestone streets, stone buildings, and fortified walls.
Geography
Old Quebec is divided into two parts:
- Upper Town (Haute-Ville) – located atop Cap Diamant, home to landmarks such as Château Frontenac, the Citadel of Quebec, and Dufferin Terrace.
- Lower Town (Basse-Ville) – along the riverbank, featuring Place Royale, Petit-Champlain, and the Old Port.
Landmarks
- Château Frontenac – iconic grand hotel and symbol of Quebec City.
- Citadel of Quebec – star-shaped fortress still used by the Canadian military.
- Plains of Abraham – historic battlefield and now a major urban park.
- Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral – one of the oldest cathedrals in North America.
- Petit-Champlain District – one of the oldest commercial streets in North America.
Culture and Tourism
Old Quebec attracts millions of visitors annually. Street performers, horse-drawn carriages, artisan shops, and open-air cafes contribute to its European atmosphere. Festivals such as the Quebec Winter Carnival often take place in or around Old Quebec.
The funicular railway connects Upper Town and Lower Town, offering scenic views of the Saint Lawrence River and the city of Lévis.
UNESCO Designation
UNESCO recognized Old Quebec as a World Heritage Site in 1985, citing its exceptional preservation of colonial architecture and fortifications, rare in North America.
See also
References
FAQs
Q: Why is Old Quebec important? A: It is the birthplace of French civilization in North America and the only walled city north of Mexico.
Q: What are the two sections of Old Quebec? A: Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville).
Q: When was Old Quebec declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site? A: 1985.
Q: What attractions are found in Old Quebec? A: Château Frontenac, the Citadel, Petit-Champlain, Place Royale, and the fortified walls.