Also called the Gibraltar of the Americas, the Citadel is a national historic monument and an official residence of the Governor General. The Citadel, dating from 1820, is one of Québec City’s most distinctive features, built at the city’s highest point, and a legacy of the British occupation.

On the heights of Cap Diamant, the star-shaped, 25 building fortress was built to withstand a repeat attack on the city from across the Plains of Abraham to the southwest. By the time the fortress was finished in 1832, attacks against the city had ended. The Citadel has served as a base for the Royal 22nd Regiment.

When you visit, make sure you join one of the guided tours, which includes a visit to the Royal 22e Régiment Museum, which has a military collection spanning more than 300 years. During the summer, the Royal 22e Régiment performs impressive traditional military ceremonies like the Changing of the Guard. If weather permits, you can see troops parading before the Citadel in red coats and black fur hats while bands play. The Citadel is located in Upper Town.