Royal Battery

This link in the defensive system is a stone semi-circle built in 1691 that was used by the French soldiers during the siege of Québec City in 1759.

Restored in 1977, this structure comprises four stone walls, 14 embrasures, reproductions of cannons and interpretation panels. The entrance is on rue Sous-le-Fort in the Petit-Champlain district.

What to do at the Royal Battery?

• For starters, you can take pictures of your children perched on the cannons or immortalize the stunning view of the Château Frontenac at the top of the cliff while looking up at it from the end of rue Sous-le-Fort
• As you stroll through the historic district, you can watch the ferries cross the St. Lawrence River between Québec City and the South Shore

History of the Royal Battery

The Battery is named in honour of Louis XIV, the French king who financed its construction. Its form allowed soldiers to spot ships sailing up the river. The platform was designed to accommodate the battery of cannons needed to defend the city. Under the English Regime, the Royal Battery was first altered to make way for a commercial wharf, and was then gradually replaced by successive constructions and fillwork. Unearthed during archeological digs, the Battery was restored in 1977 and re-inaugurated the following year. To mark the city's 370th anniversary, the French government gave ten pieces of 1733 artillery to the Royal Battery as a gift.