Museum of Civilization, Quebec City
By Zephyr Fang
Last month I spent a weekend in Old Quebec City. The town was built by French settlers in the 17th century. They started from a strip of land under the cliff along the St. Lawrence River, then moved to the top of the hill. Today, this hill separates the towns into a lower town and upper town.
Map of Canada
I found that most buildings in Quebec City are two or three story masonry houses with tall and steep roofs, designed in the “New French Style”. The architecture of Old Quebec reminded me of Europe. Walking down the maze of cobblestone streets and sitting at the town square, people watching and listening to street musicians.
Masonry houses with steep roofs
Before leaving Quebec, I debated checking out the Museum of Civilization by the river. I was afraid visiting a modern building at the end of the trip would cloud my memory. In the end, I’m glad I chose to go.
North Elevation
North Elevation
The Museum of Civilization building was designed by Moshe Safdie in the 1980s. It is a textbook example of how to respect tradition. It mimics adjacent buildings with its height, materials and proportions.
North Entrance
Despite the modern details, it adopts the "New French Style" characterized by massive walls, narrow deep openings, and dramatic dormers on the steep roof.
Detail of wall, window and roof
Detail of Medallion and Window
Detail of Local Grey Limestone Wall
The grand roof top stair connecting the front and back of the building provides a great view of the river.
Riverside Elevation
Riverside Entrance and Roof Stairway
Unfortunately, I did not have time to go inside, but I will save that for my next trip for sure!