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Explore these little-known of inaccessible hidden treasures of Québec City.
The colour red became associated with the upper houses of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in the 16th century. Widely known as the “Salon rouge” or Red Hall, the Legislative Council Chamber (the equivalent of Canada’s Senate) is no exception. The council was abolished in 1968, and today this room is used by parliamentary committees and for official activities.
Point of interest: Parliament, at the heart of the city’s political heritage
The Library of the National Assembly occupies the whole of the Pamphile–Le May building, which was built from 1912 to 1915 and named after the library’s first director. Open to all, the library contains vast collections for use by MNAs as well as old and rare books considered to be national treasures.
This hall occupies the space between the National Assembly Chamber and the Legislative Council Chamber. It features the names and coats of arms of important individuals as well as the coats of arms of members under the English regime, to which the hall is dedicated. The French regime is not forgotten, though, and fleurs-de-lis represent the French monarchy. Papyrus leaves between the alcoves are a reminder of how important the written word has been to the institution.
The “Salon bleu” or Blue Hall was once green and is the name commonly used for the chamber where MNAs have met since April 8, 1886. The walls were painted blue when televised debates began in 1978.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church is a historical monument of extraordinary beauty, featuring a lush, ornamental polychrome interior. It is also home to a number of heritage treasures, including the Déry-Casavant organ, classified as a Québec cultural property, not to mention the marble pulpit, high altar, altarpiece, and the stained-glass windows.
Point of interest: Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church
Built between 1808 and 1812, this tower was once part of the city’s advanced defences. Its masonry walls were thicker on the side exposed to attacks than on the side facing the city. A central pier meant that a heavy cannon could be installed on the terrace at the top. A dozen men lived inside, below the powder magazine.
Point of interest: Martello Tower No. 4
This tower’s upper terrace was covered with a roof 11 years after it was built to protect the soldiers, artillery, and masonry walls from the Québec climate. The roof was, however, lower than the current one. The pierced parapet surrounding the terrace made it easier to see and fire at enemies.
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