Adelaide's Travel Notes - Canada

Canada
Québec City

Québec means "strait" and it got its name because it is strategically located at a narrow portion of Saint Lawrence River.
	It is the only fortified city in America north of Mexico, with a well preserved 4.6km long defensive system easily seen on the image above, in a view from Lévis.
Chateau Frontenac is certainly one of the most photographed buildings in the city. Despite its medieval style, it was built late in 18th century, and some additions were made later. It is located next to Place d'Armes and is a luxurious hotel.
	Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608 as a fur-trading post. Québec remains an important port. In 1759, at Plains of Abraham, the British defeated the French, which marked the end of French rule. But Québec remains essentially French and is the pride of French Canada.
All around the city you will find the blue & white fleur-de-lis, a symbol of the French sovereigns which is also seen on the province's flag.
	Due to the fortifications and the French-style buildings that are unique in North America, Québec City was nominated World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.
The Vieux Port (Old Port) at Basse-Ville (Lower City) consists mostly of restored buildings and pedestrian roads. At the Petit-Champlain quarter, the tourist finds shops, restaurants and charming bistros.
	The Parliament Building is a square structure in the Upper Town, inspired by 16th century French classicism. Québec City is the capital of the Québec province. Many of its inhabitants seek independence from the rest of Canada.
Québec is also a modern city, but it preserved its historical areas. I consider Québec one the most charming cities in America.

Links
Québec City, by Tourisme Québec
Québec City, by Québec Area Tourism and Convention Bureau
Québec City, by the Organization of World Heritage Cities
Quebec, by Excite Travel