City Hall of Quebec City, National historic site in Old Quebec, Canada
City Hall of Quebec City stands on Des Jardins Street and features a tall clock tower, steeply sloped roofs, and ornate dormers designed in Second Empire style. The building spans an entire block in the upper town, with multiple entrance points that adapt to the natural slope of the terrain.
The building was completed in 1896 and replaced a former Jesuit college that had occupied the site from the 1730s onward. The location had served as a key religious and educational center for the region for nearly 150 years before becoming the home of city government.
The interior features carved wooden panels and ornamental ceilings throughout the main halls, reflecting local craftsmanship traditions from the 1800s. These details show how the city wanted its civic center to demonstrate the skill and heritage of the community.
The building spans multiple levels and uses the natural slope of the land cleverly, which can make it confusing to navigate. Plan enough time to explore the different entrance points and areas to see everything the structure has to offer.
Architect Georges-Émile Tanguay blended Classical, Medieval, and Châteauesque elements into the design in an unexpected way. This stylistic mix makes the building stand out and sets it apart from other town halls of that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
