Quebec City
Quebec City (French: Ville de Québec) is the capital of the province of Quebec and one of the oldest European settlements in North America. Famous for its fortified Old Town and deep French heritage, Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Francophone culture in Canada.
Quick Facts
- Province: Quebec
- Population: Over 550,000 (metro area over 840,000)
- Official Language: French
- Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
- Demonym: Québécois / Québécoise
History
Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec City was the first permanent French settlement in North America. It served as the capital of New France and later became a key battleground between the French and British empires, most notably during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759.
Its walled Old Town (Vieux-Québec) is the only fortified city north of Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Government
As the provincial capital, Quebec City is home to:
- The National Assembly of Quebec
- The Premier’s office
- Various provincial ministries and agencies
Economy
Key economic sectors include:
- Public administration and government services
- Tourism and cultural industries
- Technology and IT services
- Manufacturing (especially pulp and paper)
- Insurance and financial services
Major Attractions
- Château Frontenac – iconic historic hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River
- Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) – cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and colonial architecture
- Plains of Abraham – historic battle site and urban park
- Montmorency Falls – higher than Niagara Falls
- Citadel of Quebec – active military installation
- Musée de la civilisation – modern museum of culture and history
Culture and Festivals
Quebec City is a hub of French-Canadian culture, with events like:
- Carnaval de Québec – one of the world’s largest winter festivals
- Festival d’été de Québec – 11-day summer music festival
- Fête nationale du Québec (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day)
Education
Key educational institutions include:
- Université Laval – one of the oldest universities in North America
- Cégeps and technical colleges serving Francophone students
Neighborhoods
- Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec)
- Saint-Roch – tech and arts district
- Montcalm – cultural quarter
- Sainte-Foy – home to Université Laval and shopping hubs
- Limoilou – trendy and residential
Transportation
RTC provides public bus services. Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) connects the region domestically and internationally. A future tramway project is under development.
Did You Know?
- Quebec City’s name comes from an Algonquin word meaning “where the river narrows.”
- It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
- The Château Frontenac is said to be the most photographed hotel in the world.