Fortifications of Québec

The Fortifications of Québec form a stone defense system that wraps around the historic core and once protected the city. The network includes walls, bastions, gates, and casemates that together create a continuous defensive ring.

The walls began in 1608 and were expanded and modified by French and British forces over centuries to protect the growing city. The site withstood multiple attacks and still retains key features from its founding period.

The stone walls show gates and bastions that blend French and British building styles from different eras of the city. Walking along the fortifications, you notice how different cultures left their marks on the structure.

You can explore the walls on foot, with sections directly walkable and others viewable from above. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the paths are uneven and climb across several levels.

A detailed scale model from the early 1800s shows how the entire fortification system looked at that time and gives a glimpse into its past configuration. This handcrafted model is displayed in a museum housed within the park.

Location: La Cité-Limoilou

Location: Desjardins

Part of: Old Quebec

Website: http://pc.gc.ca/fra/lhn-nhs/qc/fortifications

GPS coordinates: 46.80997,-71.21161

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58