Built: 1877-1886 Designed by: Eugène-Étienne Taché Type: Government Building Stories: 8 Maximum Height: 171 feet / 52 meters Location: Avenue Honoré-Mercier, Québec City, Canada
T he Québecois have built a capitol worthy not just of their province, but of an entire nation. L'Hôtel du Parlement is a beautiful building -- wide and stable, fancy and free -- much like the people it represents. Erected in the late 19th century, it was inspired by the Louvre museum in Paris, and bears the symbols of Québec's dual heritage. Both fleur-de-lis and the letters "VR" appear repeatedly on the facade, and inside.
The building was constructed in two phases. The first phase saw the erection of the northern, southern, and western wings. When that was complete, the legislative building was started, completing the structure.
There are 22 statues on the facade, representing important people in Québec's history.
The facade also bears the provincial motto "Je me souviens" (I remember.)
When the National Assembly is in session, the decorative crown is illuminated.
27 March, 1884 - Québec's National Assembly meets in this building for the first time.
21 January, 1948 - The Québec fleur-de-lis flag replaces the British Union Jack at the top of the main tower.
