Legacy
In 1908, for the celebrations of the 300th anniversary of Québec City, the Government of Canada gave residents of the city an extraordinary site that today is central to the life of the community: the Plains of Abraham. It also established the National Battlefields Commission. As was the case on that earlier occasion, the Government of Canada is actively involved in the 400th anniversary. A century ago it developed the Upper City; now its legacy will give residents renewed access to an extraordinary treasure: the Saint Lawrence River.

Photo Paul Dionne
Like the Plains of Abraham, the Saint Lawrence River is central to the history and life of the people of Québec City. Throughout the centuries, it enabled the city and all of Canada to develop and grow. The Saint Lawrence River was the gateway for our greatest nation builders. Recognizing the key role of this natural feature, the Government of Canada (through Canada Economic Development) is providing funding to the Port of Québec for the redevelopment of three riverside sites: Baie de Beauport, Pointe-à-Carcy and Bassin Brown. These relaxation and leisure sites will become major tourist, historical and recreational attractions for the City of Québec and for all Canadians.

The 400th anniversary of Québec City is sure to draw many visitors from Canada and around the world. Taking place at the same time as the anniversary celebrations will be events such as the World Men's Hockey Championship, the 49th Eucharistic Congress, the 4th World Youth Congress, the 73rd World Library and Information Congress, and the 12th Sommet de la Francophonie. The 400th anniversary of Québec City is thus a time when people from all over Canada and around the world will gather to celebrate 400 years of history, 400 years of culture and 400 years of encounters.