Québec - Parc Historique de l'Artillerie

Proceeding northwards from La Poudrière leads in the first instance to the partly restored Porte St-Jean. Beyond the old gate lies the Parc de l'Artillerie into which a number of ancient buildings have been incorporated (part of a military complex including barracks which was constructed here in the 17th and 18th c.). The Logis d'Officiers (officers' quarters) and the neighboring Redoute Dauphine with its mighty walls have been excellently restored. In 1879 an arsenal was established on the site, and afterwards a factory making munitions and other military equipment. The latter closed in 1964. The factory building now houses an information center devoted to the city's history (with an enthralling model of 19th c. Québec).