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Put on your walking shoes to explore the city of Quebec, which is sure to cast its magical spell on you with its grandeur, writes
Seema Sachdeva The first thing that strikes you about the city of Quebec, the capital city of the Quebec province of Canada, is its old-world charm. The magic of a bygone era can be felt in the stone walls, cobblestone streets, old lamp posts, Norman-style houses, dormer windows, richly carved window frames, besides the numerous murals and tapestries that adorn the walls of the city.
From its rich cultural history, which can be felt in every nook and cranny of the city, to the modern shopping complexes and malls, there is something for everyone. Earlier called the Cradle of New France, this is the only walled city in North America. Recently named as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, it was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain following Jacques Cartier’s instructions. Initially intended to be a centre for fur trade, the French soon realised that the city was a strategic spot and had a natural fortification. Not surprising then, Quebec’s architecture has a marked French influence as well as that of England. A wealth of architecture lies preserved over centuries within the walls of Old Quebec. While the Parliament building resembles the Louvre in Paris, the Price building is reminiscent of the skyscrapers of New York during the 1920s and 1930s. The architecture of Chateau Frontenac Hotel, which is the world’s most photographed hotel, is inspired by chateaux of Loire Valley in France. The hotel, which has been host to dignitaries like Queen Elizabeth II, Ronald Reagan, Jacques Chirac, Richard Nixon, Grace of Monaco, besides world leaders like Churchill, Roosevelt, Eisenhower and Mackenzie King, is the symbol of the city, its landmark signature. A walk in the Quebec City, which is built on Cap aux Diamants promontory, will take you through narrow streets, which go up and down and zigzag slowly. You may stroll through its numerous parks under giant elms and maple trees, or get entertained by street performers. Ride in a decorated horse-drawn carriage for a taste of the Victorian era, or walk along the wharves to the Levis ferryboat for breathtaking views of the city from the mighty Saint Lawrence River, or simply savour the Quebec hospitality with fine wines and lavish dining at French-style cafes. People of the city take immense pride in its cultural heritage. The city has stubbornly refused to change its character with any facelifts. Even McDonald's hasn’t been permitted to put the trademark M in front of its restaurant. The city of Quebec breathes art. The city, which prides itself in being an artist’s delight, takes good care of its artists. As much as 10 per cent of the construction cost of all government buildings is allocated to artists for creating works of art. No wonder, art works and sculptures mark all important buildings: be it the Plains of Abraham, where one can find the Statue of Joan of Arc standing with pride, or Fontaine de Tourny in front of the Parliament building, or the impressive fountain in front of the Gare du Palais, the heritage railway station, or simply the murals and tapestries on the city walls, there is art everywhere. The Painter’s Alley, where painters sell their artworks, is a haven for art lovers. For the convenience of tourists, a large number of interpretive centres and thematic museums are set at important buildings and places of interest. You can check out an audio-visual to know the important historical events, or simply sit in a bubble at the observatory and hear Samuel de Champlain describe his life and adventures, or enjoy a close-up of Montmorency Falls. Do take out time for a leisurely trip to the nearby picturesque island of the Orleans. Nature’s bounty in this land is evident in its various colours, which different seasons bring with it. While the weather in the city remains warm from March till August, it starts changing with the fall in September. The fall is the best time to visit the city. As leaves change colour, the city transforms itself into an impressionist work of art. Come February, and the city gets alive with the Winter Carnival Festival. Besides Ice Hotel, the other major attractions during the festival include winter sports like snowshoeing, tobogganing, snowmobile rides, etc. The city, which is visited by more than five million tourists every year, is ranked among the safest places to live in North America. One is sure to succumb to the subtle yet striking charm of this city, which is Mother Nature’s tapestry.
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