Musée de la civilisation
Quebec
Musée de la civilisation, situated in Quebec City's historic Old Quebec near the Saint Lawrence River, is a renowned museum dedicated to exploring art, society, and ethnography. Designed by celebrated architect Moshe Safdie, it opened in 1988 and incorporates historic buildings such as the Banque de Paris and Maison Estèbe. The museum houses over 225,000 objects, featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions that delve into humanities and cultural heritage. Notable exhibits include themes like Territories, the history of Quebecois people, and First Nations encounters. It also offers a Discovery Zone tailored for children, enriching educational experiences. Additional amenities include guided tours, a French America reference center, a cafeteria, souvenir shops, and leisure spaces, making it a vibrant cultural hub for visitors of all ages.
Plan your trip to Canada with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially if you want to explore exhibits in depth. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to ensure entry and check for any available discounts for students or seniors. The museum offers guided tours which enhance understanding of the rich collections. Don't miss the Discovery Zone if visiting with children. The museum's location in Old Quebec allows for a combined cultural and historic walking experience in the area.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's collection includes over 225,000 objects related to art, society, and ethnography.
- •It incorporates historic buildings like the Banque de Paris and Maison Estèbe into its modern structure.
- •Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, the museum opened in 1988.
- •It features a Discovery Zone specifically designed for children to engage with cultural topics.
- •The museum is affiliated with the Canadian Museums Association, Canadian Heritage Information Network, and Virtual Museum of Canada.
- •It has hosted exhibitions addressing sensitive topics, including a collection of human remains related to early 20th-century forensic research.
History
Musée de la civilisation was inaugurated on October 19, 1988, designed by architect Moshe Safdie.
It was created to preserve and present Quebec's cultural heritage and human history through extensive collections and exhibitions.
The museum's structure integrates historic buildings such as the Banque de Paris and Maison Estèbe, blending contemporary architecture with heritage.
Over the years, it has expanded its offerings to include both permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as educational and digital initiatives.
In recent years, the museum has also been involved in discussions regarding its collection of human remains, highlighting ethical considerations in museum curation.
Place Guide
Banque de Paris and Maison Estèbe Integration19th century
These historic buildings on Saint-Pierre street were incorporated into the museum's design, blending heritage architecture with modern museum spaces.
Territories Exhibition
A permanent exhibit exploring the diverse lands and cultural landscapes of Quebec and surrounding regions.
Le Temps des Québécois Exhibition
An exhibition detailing the history and evolution of Quebec's people from past to present.
Nous, les premières nations Exhibition
Focuses on the history, culture, and contemporary life of the First Nations peoples of Quebec.
Quartier des découvertes (Discovery Zone)
An interactive area designed for children to explore cultural and historical themes through hands-on activities.
Contact
Phone: (418) 643-2158
