The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, whose construction began in 1688, stands on what is considered the cradle of French America. It was on this very site that Samuel de Champlain established his Habitation in 1608, marking the beginning of the history of Québec and Canada. The church is also recognized as the oldest stone church in the country to have retained its original walls.

The church’s name commemorates two victories over the English, during their failed attempts to capture Québec in 1690 and 1711. Today, it remains an iconic symbol of Old Québec.

What to do at Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church

• Discover the tabernacle of the Sainte-Geneviève Chapel, the only original element remaining.
• Admire the replica of the ship Le Brézé, rescued from the ruins of the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral in 1759.
• Spot, outside the church, the traces on the ground of Champlain’s second Habitation.
• Take a photo in front of this Old Québec icon, set against the postcard-perfect backdrop of Place Royale.