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The famous Dalhousie Gate, a Québec City landmark, is buzzing with activity! Built from the remains of 17th-century fortresses, Dalhousie Gate is the only one that was not widened to accommodate road traffic. Named after the governor-general who was in office when it was built, it reflects the importance of Québec City’s defence.
1829 - 1834

The rampart gates of Québec City in the early 19th century

Building began on Québec City’s fortifications in 1690 under the French Regime. The French sought to surround the town with ramparts to protect it from the British. The British indeed invaded Québec City in 1759. They too recognized the fortifications’ strategic value and subsequently rebuilt them. By the 19th century, Québec City residents were well accustomed to living with this military inheritance. The rampart gates were simply a part of their daily surroundings. Explore the works reflecting this period!

Dalhousie Gate

James Pattison Cockburn The famous Dalhousie Gate, a Québec City landmark, is buzzing with activity! Built from the remains of 17th-century fortresses, Dalhousie Gate is the only one that was not widened to accommodate road traffic. Named after the governor-general who was in office when it was built, it reflects the importance of Québec City’s defence.
Chronoscope What comments and thoughts does this image evoke for you? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Date: 1829