Atop the high cliff of Cape Diamond sits La Citadelle, a fortress originally built by the British between 1820 and 1850 to protect Québec from a potential American invasion. The attack never happened, yet La Citadelle has remained an active Canadian military installation to this day. The adjoining Plains of Abraham, on the other hand, witnessed the last major battle of the Seven Years’ War in North America and led to the ceding of Canada from the French over to the British.
Today, long gone are the jarring notes in history, and what we see is mostly an expansive stretch of green open space that feels both calm and welcoming. This should be a constant reminder that peace is always hard-won, and that history should never repeat itself.
Tips
- Visit the Plains of Abraham Museum to learn more about the critical battles that shaped Canada and Québec. Check hours here before you go: https://www.plainsofabraham.ca/locations-historical-monuments/plains-of-abraham-museum
- Take a stroll along La Promenade des Gouverneurs or Parc du Bastion-de-la-Reine. From La Citadelle, both routes will lead you to the Château Frontenac, offering stunning views of the city and the St. Lawrence River.
- Bring a jacket, preferably a windbreaker, as this area is typically windy.