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Quebec City

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The capital of the Canadian province Quebec is Quebec City, formerly known as Québec. The city’s population as of July 2021 was 549,459; its metropolitan area consisted of 839,311 people. Following Montreal, this demographic data ranks Quebec City as the second-largest city in the province and the twelfth-largest city and metropolitan region in Canada. The humid continental climate of the city defines pleasant summers and cold, snow-covered winters, therefore offering unique seasonal experiences all year long.

Quebec City enjoys a position of historical distinction as one of North America’s early European colonies. Named for the Algonquin word “Kébec,” which means “where the river narrows,” the city was founded in 1608 by French adventurer Samuel de Champlain. The only defensive city walls left north of Mexico in the Americas are those of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec). Understanding its historical importance, UNESCO named this area the “Historic District of Old Québec” in 1985, so giving it World Heritage Site status.

Situated on the northern bank of the Saint Lawrence River at the point where it narrows and converges with the Saint-Charles River, the city’s geographic position is of strategic relevance. On the eastern edge of a plateau called the promontory of Quebec, Old Quebec is perched atop and at the base of Cap-Diamant. La Cité-Limoilou, the most urbanized borough, is split in topographical terms from upper to lower sections. The Saint Lawrence Lowlands, marked by level ground and rich, arable soil, lie to the north of this height. The Laurentian Mountains go northward beyond this valley, their foothills invading the city limits.

Renowned for its yearly Winter Carnival, summer music festival, and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day events, Quebec City is a hive of culture. Attracting a worldwide audience, these events provide insights on the rich cultural fabric of the city. Although the Jardin zoologique du Québec, which reopened in 2002 after major renovations, closed permanently in 2006, it had earlier shown 750 specimens representing 300 different animal species. Emphasizing Quebec’s indigenous fauna, the zoo also included an Indo-Australian greenhouse to showcase plants and animals from areas around the Indian Ocean.

Parc Aquarium du Québec, which started running in 2002, is evidence of the city’s dedication to highlight natural beauties today. Ignoring the Saint Lawrence River, this institution keeps more over 10,000 species of animals, reptiles, fish, and other aquatic life native to North America and the Arctic. Main attractions are polar bears and many seal species; the “Large Ocean,” a vast basin provides underwater view complementing them.

Among the many historical landmarks, art galleries, and museums Quebec City has are the Citadelle of Quebec, Musée de la civilisation, Musée des beaux-arts du Québec, and Ursuline of Quebec. These organizations give insights into the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Additional prominent tourist sites are Montmorency Falls, a stunning natural beauty, and the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, located just outside the city borders. For those seeking adventure, the Mont-Sainte-Anne ski resort and the Ice Hotel provide unique experiences that underline the city’s diversified options.

The climate of Quebec City is classed as humid continental, defined by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sometimes scorching, with excessive humidity levels causing a heat index that defies ordinary temperatures. Winters are chilly, windy, and snow-laden, with temperatures regularly dipping below freezing. Spring and fall, however short, provide a variety of temperatures from frigid to warm. The city gets 1,190 milliliters of precipitation on average; snow usually covers the ground from late November to mid-April.

Quebec City offers a fascinating mix of historical value, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Its strategic position by the Saint Lawrence River, together with its varied temperature and rich cultural environment, make it a special place for both visitors and locals. Quebec City offers an enduring experience whether one is visiting its historical buildings, taking part in its well-known celebrations, or just enjoying the picturesque settings.

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Currency

1608

Founded

418-581-367

Area code

549,459

Population

83,879 km2 (32,386 sq mi)

Area

French

Official language

98 meters (322 feet)

Elevation

UTC−05:00 (EST)

Time zone

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