Highlights of the Quebec Citadel
The Citadel of Québec (Citadelle de Québec) is a military facility built at a strategic location in eastern Canada. It is also known as the Citadel.
Citadel (Citadelle) is a French (or Italian) word for a fortress or fort built to defend a city. The Quebec Citadel is said to be the largest citadel in North America.
The origins of the Québec Citadel date back to the1690s, during the period of French rule. At that time, the French army built a defensive position on the heights of Québec overlooking the St. Lawrence River, serving as a line of defense for New France (French Canada).
Even after the British army captured Quebec, the British recognized the site’s strategic importance and built an even larger star-shaped fortress. This was when the modern structure seen today, with its thick stone walls, moat, barracks, and arsenal, was constructed.
Dalhousie Gate and the Changing of the Guard
This is Dalhousie Gate, one of the main entrances to Quebec Fortress.
The Citadelle of Québec’s main attraction is the Changing of the Guard. It is usually held during the summer season from 10 a.m., but please check the official website for the latest information.
Royal 22 Regiment and Batteries
The goat is the official mascot of the Royal 22nd Regiment (Royal 22e Régiment), based at the Fortifications of Québec. The name Batiste has been passed down from one mascot to the next.
Batisse the goat has also been awarded official military ranks, including corporal.
Military Facilities and Quebec’s Motto
It is a military chapel.
A building that was used as a military hospital.
“Je me souviens” is Quebec’s official motto in French and means “I will remember.” It is generally interpreted as a reminder not to forget the people’s history, traditions, and identity.
Essential Information About the Fortifications of Québec
The information below was checked against official sources on October 11, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- On the Citadelle of Québec’s official website, you can find information about visits, the Royal 22e Régiment Museum (Musée Royal 22e Régiment), and events.
La Citadelle de Québec | Site historique & Musée vivantDécouvrez La Citadelle de Québec, une forteresse active au cœur du Vieux-Québec, offrant un musée fascinant, des vi...www.lacitadelle.qc.ca - 📍 Address
- 1, Côte de la Citadelle, Québec G1R 3R2, Canada
- 🕒 Opening hours
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- 5 16–8 31, 2026: 9:00–17:30
- 9 1, 2026–5 21, 2027: 10:00–17:30
Although it is described as open daily, the FAQ states that it is closed on 12 25 and 1 1.
- 💶 Admission
- General admission for adults is CA$22. Prices for each ticket category are covered in the following section, “Citadelle of Québec Tickets.”
- ⏱️ Suggested visit duration
- Allow approximately 1 and a half to 2 hours, including the 60-minute outdoor guided tour and time to visit the museum and temporary exhibitions.⚠️ The citadel is an active military installation and can only be visited on a guided tour.
Tickets for the Québec Citadel
- 💶 General admission prices
-
- Adults:CA$22
- Seniors (65 years and older):CA$20
- Students (18 years and older):CA$20
- Ages11–17:CA$8
- 10 and under:free
- Family:CA$50 (up to2 adults and3 children under18)
General admission includes a60-minute outdoor guided tour and admission to the Royal22 Regiment Museum.
- 🎫 Tickets and reservations
- Reservations are not required for regular visits. For groups and special events, the official FAQ includes both statements that reservations are “recommended” and “required,” so confirm the conditions with the fortress. VIP tours require reservations for a minimum of4 people and cost1 peopleCA$30.⚠️ Guided tours operate even in rainy weather, so prepare clothing suitable for walking outdoors.
La Citadelle de Québec | Horaires et admissionsConsultez les heures d’ouverture et les tarifs d’entrée pour planifier votre visite à La Citadelle. Tarifs pour adu...www.lacitadelle.qc.ca
Getting to the Citadelle of Québec
Walk west for about 8 minutes from Château Frontenac to the Saint-Louis Gate. Turn left just before the gate and walk south for another about 4 minutes to reach the Citadelle of Québec.
Entrance and accessibility
The main entrance is at Côte de la Citadelle 1. Follow the signs to the visitor reception. The fortress is an active military facility, and a guide is required to visit the interior. Some parts of the historic area are difficult to navigate, but the museum has ramps and accessible spaces.
The related guide “【ケベック・シティー】観光スポット・グルメ・交通・モデルコースを解説” is currently available only in Japanese.
