La Citadelle of Quebec

Photo Credit: Day Trips Canada

La Citadelle of Quebec was built overlooking the mighty Saint Lawrence. Construction began in 1820 and took over 30 years to complete. Designed by a French military engineer, La Citadelle was the most important fortification built in North America during the British period. Spanning 37 acres, La Citadelle was designed in the shape of a four pointed polygon with each point forming a bastion.

Today, La Citadelle is still a fully active military base and home to the Royal 22e Régiment (the Vandoos). As visitors tour the base, current military soldiers can be seen performing day-to-day military duties. During the summer, visitors can witness the changing of the guard where soldiers in traditional scarlet uniforms are joined by the Regimental Band and the regimental goat (Batisse).

In addition to the historic base, La Citadelle is home to the Royal 22e Régiment Museum - a collection that showcases more than 300 years of history. Items found at the museum include weapons, uniforms, medals, and personal items showcasing life at the base since 1914.
Guided tours of La Citadelle and the Royal 22e Régiment Museum offer a comprehension of territorial space and defense organization, visit of exhibitions and a wonderful view of the city and Saint Lawrence River. For more information, please visit http://www.lacitadelle.qc.ca

Located on the grounds of La Citadelle is the Residence of the Governor General of Canada. Since 1872, this historic building has been the second official home to every Governor General of Canada. The home is now open for free guided public tours (when the Governor General is not using the residence).