Citadelle of Quebec

Quebec City, Canada

The Citadelle of Quebec is an active military installation and official residence of both the Canadian monarch and the Governor General of Canada. It is located atop Cap Diamant, adjoining the Plains of Abraham in Quebec City. The citadel is the oldest military building in Canada, and forms part of the fortifications of Quebec City, which is one of only two cities in North America still surrounded by fortifications, the other being Campeche, Mexico.

The first fortifications in Quebec were built by the Governor General of New France Louis de Buade, and completed just in time for the Battle of Quebec in 1690.

After the British conquest in the second half of the 18th century, the problem of Quebec City's defences grew more acute. Fears of a potential French attempt to recapture the colony, concerns about a possible uprising by the local French population and war with the Americans forced the British to develop a new defensive strategy for the city. Between 1778 and 1783, during the American War of Independence, wooden redoubts and earthworks were constructed on Cap Diamant. The Citadel was not necessarily meant to be the central element in Quebec City's defences, but was designed to play more of a supporting role while at the same time serving as the corner stone of the system.

Having narrowly repelled the American invasion of Canada during the War of 1812, the British decided to re-examine their defensive strategy. The current fortress was constructed from 1820 to 1832. 

Soldiers of the British garrison did the lion's share of the construction work. The Citadel, which was also designed to serve as a barracks and arms depot, could house between 1,000 and 1,500 soldiers and their equipment. It was rare, however, for the full complement of troops to be stationed there. In mid-19th century Quebec City, the British garrison was split between the Citadel, the Jesuit Barracks (where City Hall stands today), and Artillery Park.

The Citadel's role has evolved over time and although it was never tested in battle, it has been continuously occupied by the military throughout its history. In the years following its completion, changes were made to the defensive system in Quebec City and the surrounding area. For example, the guns on the bastions were replaced by more modern artillery. Tensions during the American Civil War (1861-1865) spurred British authorities to strengthen the city's defences further. Between 1865 and 1871, three forts (including Fort No.1 in Lauzon) were built on the Lévis heights on the south shore to provide support for the Citadel.

Today the Citadelle remains an active garrison and since 1920 is home to the Royal 22e Régiment, the Canadian Forces' sole French-language regular force infantry regiment. The Citadelle is a National Historic Site of Canada. The site receives some 200,000 visitors annually.

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Founded: 1693
Category: Castles and fortifications in Canada

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4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Charlene Mixa (31 days ago)
We enjoyed both strolling the Museum with all its history and the guided tour of the Citadel. Xavier gave a very good tour. Easy to hear and understand. Plus he was very welcoming. We went into the shooting gallery and the former arsenal where gun powder was stored. Today it has good displays. A nice tour. Be prepared for walking.
lauren langer (38 days ago)
Great tour!! Kristoff was a great guide, very funny and knowledgeable. Recommend to buy tickets in advance as we arrived around 10am and all were sold until 11:30. But no issue as ticket comes with admittance to the museum. Offered in both English and French. Great views as well.
Joseph Smith (2 months ago)
We didn’t go inside the museum because of the cost and time commitment. Guided tours only which take several hours. But the grounds were open to the public. We had a nice stroll atop the fortifications and then down the hill right back into the heart of the Old City. Panoramic views of the river and harbor, great photo opportunities.
J W (2 months ago)
Guided tours only, not like other forts like Fort Henry. Our guide (English tour). William, was great. Engaging, funny, smart, he made the tour very interesting and kept the attention of the crowd. Didn't walk too fast, and threw out interesting facts without promoting. The fort is quite big so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Some great views of Quebec at the top. A great place to visit and should be at the top of the list.
Pablo Listingart (2 months ago)
It is probably the most famous fort in Quebec, but to be honest, if it weren't for the band show, it wouldn't be worth the visit. The Levis Fort is more interesting and fun to visit with the family. You can't walk on your own at the Citadelle as it is an active base, and the places shown to us weren't that great.
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