City Hall of Quebec City (Hotel de Ville), Quebec City

The City Hall of Quebec City, known as Hôtel de ville de Québec, serves as the headquarters for the local government. It holds special historical significance, having been designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1984 and also earning a spot on the World Heritage Site list in 1985.

Before the construction of this City Hall, municipal authorities held their meetings at the residence of British Army Major General William Dunn from 1842 to 1896. Prior to that, they convened at various other locations.

The City Hall building is situated on a hill that was previously occupied by the Jesuit College (known as Jesuit Barracks) from the 1730s to 1878. The college was demolished to make way for the new City Hall. The design of the City Hall was the work of architect Georges-Émile Tanguay, and it became the second permanent city hall in the Old City. Its architectural plan stirred considerable debate between the mayor and city councilors at the time. Nevertheless, the construction was completed in 1895, and it was officially inaugurated on September 15, 1896.

The City Hall showcases an eclectic blend of architectural styles typical of the late Victorian period. It incorporates elements of Classical, Medieval, and Châteauesque styles, with some influence from the American Romanesque Revival. This unique exterior design stands out against the more common French and British architectural styles seen in local public buildings.

The building is H-shaped and has varying heights, with towers featuring steeply-pitched roofs at its center and sides. Beneath the beautifully landscaped gardens, which were created in 2014 and include water features and a clock (a gift from the Swiss Canton of Jura, designed and manufactured by Richard Mille), there is an indoor parking facility.

The entire area exudes a captivating ambiance and becomes especially enchanting in the evening.