The Conference organizers would like to thank the Quebec Tourist Information Bureau for allowing us to use images and pieces of text showcasing Quebec City and the surrounding Region.

Aerial view of Quebec City. (Photo by Yves Tessier, Tessima)

Some travel destinations simply seize the imagination. They evoke wonder and excitement. They're beautiful, vibrant and alive. They're warm and welcoming. But few do it all as effortlessly and as naturally as Quebec, the unique walled city o­n the St. Lawrence River.

Geographic location

The city and region are located in the St. Lawrence River Valley, a sweeping plain of fertile lowlands extending from the Atlantic Seaboard all the way to the Great Lakes. The city itself is divided into two distinct parts - o­ne perched high o­n the promontory overlooking the river, the other down by the shoreline where the first settlement was built.

To the north, the Laurentian Mountains serve as a backdrop to the region. Visible o­n the horizon to the south are the Appalachian foothills and mountains extending into New England. And at the very heart of the Quebec region is the St. Lawrence River, which arrives in a flourish from Montreal, squeezes by the cliffs of Upper Town, then rushes o­n to the Atlantic in a widening expanse of water and nature. This unique combination of geography adds to the region's scenic appeal.

View of the Old Port and Old Quebec. (Photo by Luc-Antoine Couturier)

Old Quebec

The historic walled section of town is full of Old World charm with its narrow, winding streets and quaint town squares. This lively city center traces its roots back nearly 400 years to the founding of the city in 1608, and is the cradle of French civilization in America.

Today, Old Quebec is renowned for its European charm and unique architectural beauty. Boutiques and cafes line the streets, horse-drawn caleches clickety-clack past stately old homes, musicians serenade passers-by, and strollers stop for a view of the river from the cliffside boardwalk. This highly walkable and thoroughly enjoyable district is like a living history book. Visitors are fascinated by its fortifications, the cannons arrayed along its ramparts, the architectural treasures within its walls, and the special care with which the past has been preserved. In 1985, UNESCO recognized its immense historical value by declaring it a "World Heritage Treasure."

Four great periods of history

In total, four great periods have marked Quebec City's development. The first predated the arrival of European settlers, when the Quebec region was peopled by proud and independent native nations. Still today, a Huron reservation exists right within the city limits, drawing visitors for a taste of Amerindian cuisine and the opportunity to learn about native culture.

The second began with the arrival of colonists from France in 1608, at about the same time that British settlers were making their way to Virginia. Here they carved a new colony out of the surrounding wilderness, learning from the natives, clearing woodlands for farms, and raising families in their bountiful new homeland. Quebec was the capital of New France and the administrative center of an empire stretching all the way to Louisiana.

In 1759, the British laid siege to Quebec, eventually capturing the town with a surprise attack via the Plains of Abraham e today a magnificent urban park. Eager to secure the support of their new French-speaking subjects against the rebellious colonies to the south, the British declined to assimilate the habitants, guaranteeing instead their right to the Catholic religion, the French civil code of law, and the French language. It was under British rule that Quebec's fortifications were built, to protect the city against attack by the Americans. Today it is the o­nly walled city in North America.

The fourth and most recent chapter in the history of Quebec began with Canadian Confederation in 1867. Quebec was named the provincial capital and would gradually grow into the confident, outward-looking, modern center of commerce and culture it has become today.

A gourmet experience

Quebecers love fine food - and it shows. Although Quebec City and its surrounding region are often referred to as North America's fine dining capital, they could also be called its casual dining capital, its sidewalk cafe capital, its bistro capital, its wine & cheese capitale In fact, food in Quebec City is o­ne of the great pleasures of life. Whether visitors prefer fine French cuisine, a simple steak frites o­n a sun-drenched patio, the flavorful and innovative offerings of Quebec's new generation of gourmet chefs, or the hearty stews and meat pies of Quebec country cooking, the choice is appetizing and will suit every taste. A tempting variety of cuisines from around the world is also featured in a number of ethnic restaurants.

Sidewalk cafe o­n Petit-Champlain Street. (Photo by Yves Tessier, Tessima)

Shopping in Quebec City

Rue Petit-Champlain, tucked quaintly at the foot of the cliff beneath the city's landmark Cheteau Frontenac, is North America's oldest shopping street. It's great for unearthing Amerindian crafts, local designer fashions, jewelry, decorative objects and much more. Nearby rue Saint-Paul is brimming with antique shops. Visitors can also stop by o­ne of the city's many art galleries to pick out a work by an up-and-coming Quebec artist or a stunning piece of Inuit sculpture. Visitors should also be sure to venture outside the city's walls for more discoveries. Rue Saint-Jean in picturesque Faubourg Saint-Jean-Baptiste offers a tempting selection of gift items and fine foods. Rue Cartier in Quebec City's chic Montcalm district is another must o­n any shopping circuit.

A "Natural" destination

In Quebec City, urban living melds seamlessly with outdoor enjoyment. Within minutes of the center of town are mountains, lakes, rivers, protected wilderness areas, rolling farmland, and much more. Right in the heart of the city are the Plains of Abraham, an immense urban park where people love to ski, stroll, mountain bike, picnic, inline skate, and simply enjoy themselves.

A favorite destination in summer for city residents and tourists alike is Montmorency Falls Park. The waterfall, located within city limits, is nearly 100 feet (30 m) higher than Niagara. It is bordered by trails and features a cable car to the top, a panoramic stairway, and a suspension bridge. Canoeing and whitewater rafting are two big favorites at Parc de la Jacques-Cartier, a stunning wilderness park fourty minutes away from the center of town.

Cultural Quebec City

People visit Quebec City for its history and beauty, o­nly to discover a thriving cultural center. As a French-speaking metropolitan area in an English-speaking world, the city is a magnet for artists, performers and singers. It's not unusual to see a violinist, a harp player, or even a musical ensemble out practicing in Old Quebec, much to the surprise and delight of passers-by. Quebec City's vibrant cultural life extends to the visual arts. Galleries abound, many featuring works of local inspiration, others blazing trails in contemporary art and photography. The Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec o­n the Plains of Abraham offers permanent exhibits of Quebec art. The Musee de la Civilisation near the Quebec Old Port, features a number of innovative and intriguing exhibitions such as "Quebec Cinema, the Whole Story" or "Encounter with the First Nations" that will be o­n display at the Museum in June 2007.

Adding to the cultural diversity and interest of Quebec City are its many artisans from every walk of artistic life. Glassblower Jean Vallieres, whose creations are made right before visitors' eyes in his Petit Champlain craftshop, typifies the city's appeal in this regard. Many of his shopkeeper neighbors specialize in other areas, such as jewelry, fashion, leatherworks, pottery, and pewter.

For more information :

The organizers of the conference are happy and proud to invite you to visit the beautiful historical Quebec City. Mid-June is indeed a wonderful time to discover our city and region: the tourist season is not yet in full swing, but the early summer weather is already quite enjoyable. We hope that you will enjoy your stay and have the opportunity to discover some of the treasures the City and Region have to offer. You can find more information o­n the Quebec City Area at www.quebecregion.com and at www.ville.quebec.qc.ca.