La Citadelle de Quebec

La Citadelle de Québec occupies the summit of Cap Diamant overlooking the St. Lawrence River at the eastern end of Quebec City's fortification system. Constructed by British military engineers between 1820 and 1850 in a five-pointed star (bastion) plan, it is the largest North American fortification still garrisoned by active troops and serves as the home of the Royal 22e Régiment — the only Francophone infantry regiment in the Canadian Regular Force. The regimental museum within the citadel walls traces the history of the 22e from the First World War through peacekeeping missions, with a collection that includes decorations, uniforms, and regimental silver. Visitors can only access the interior by guided tour; bilingual tours in French and English run throughout the day from June through October with reduced frequency in winter. The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 10 AM from late June through late August in full red tunics and bearskin caps on the main parade ground, requiring no separate ticket beyond general admission. The fortification walls extend to viewpoints overlooking the St. Lawrence and the lower city, providing one of the highest and most expansive views of Quebec City available on foot. The Governor General of Canada's summer residence — La Résidence du Gouverneur général — is located within the citadel; this section is accessible only during designated open house events.