La Citadelle Review

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La Citadelle

Write a review | Avg. member rating: 2.8/5

Fodor's Review:

Built at the city's highest point, on Cap Diamant, the Citadel is the largest fortified base in North America still occupied by troops. The 25-building fortress was intended to protect the port, prevent the enemy from taking up a position on the Plains of Abraham, and provide a refuge in case of an attack. Having inherited incomplete fortifications, the British completed the Citadel to protect themselves against French retaliations. By the time the Citadel was finished in 1832, the attacks against Québec City had ended.

Since 1920 the Citadel has served as a base for the Royal 22nd Regiment. Firearms, uniforms, and decorations from the 17th century are displayed in the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum, in the former powder magazine, built in 1750. If weather permits, you can watch the changing of the guard, a ceremony in which troops parade before the Citadel in red coats and black fur hats, and a band plays. The regiment's mascot, a well-behaved goat, also watches the activity. At times in summer, the governor general of Canada's home and workplace in the Citadel can be toured.

  • Cost: C$10
  • Open: Apr., daily 10-4; May and June, daily 9-5; July-Labor Day, daily 9-6; Sept., daily 9-4; Oct., daily 10-3; Nov.-Mar., bilingual tour at 1:30 daily. Changing of the guard June 24-Labor Day, daily at 10AM. Retreat ceremony July and Aug., Fri.-Sun. at 7PM
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Member Reviews and Ratings

Reviewed by mvamor from Boston on 8/18/09
The only way in to the Citadel is through a 1 hour guided tour. Otherwise, you can only see the outside guard house and the visitor interpretation center which is free. We went to see it on a really hot day, which was not ideal. It's very hilly. Changing of the guard is the best part of this attraction.

Member Rating: 2.8
Ratings details: Experience: 3.0 Ease: 2.0 Value: 3.0 Don't Miss: 3.0
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