Séminaire de Québec
Founded in 1663, this historic Séminaire is home to Laval University's School of Architecture and offers a glimpse into Quebec's educational past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better exploration
Séminaire de Québec
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Founded in 1663, this historic Séminaire is home to Laval University's School of Architecture and offers a glimpse into Quebec's educational past.
"A beautiful and historically significant site offering a peaceful respite in Old Quebec."
🎯 Enter via Basilica Gate
Access the Séminaire grounds through the iron gate near the Basilica on Rue de Baude.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The courtyard and grounds offer beautiful architectural backdrops for photos.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 35 reviews
Type
Association / Organization
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Courtyard of the Petit Séminaire
Main Courtyard
A picturesque courtyard featuring a large sundial and remnants of historical homes, perfect for a moment of reflection.
Interactive Signposts
Throughout the grounds
Engaging informational signs in French and English detailing the Séminaire's significant history and former residents.
Louis Hebert Monument
Rue Ramparts
An excellent photo opportunity honoring Louis Hebert, Quebec's original 'habitant,' and his daughter Guillemette.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Seminary Grounds
Navigating the Historic Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enter via Basilica Gate
Access the Séminaire grounds through the iron gate near the Basilica on Rue de Baude.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The courtyard and grounds offer beautiful architectural backdrops for photos. 
📚 Bilingual Information
Signposts are in both French and English, making history accessible to all visitors.
🚶♂️ Historical Walk
A nice, brief historical stop during your Old Quebec City tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enter via Basilica Gate
Access the Séminaire grounds through the iron gate near the Basilica on Rue de Baude.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The courtyard and grounds offer beautiful architectural backdrops for photos.
📚 Bilingual Information
Signposts are in both French and English, making history accessible to all visitors.
🚶♂️ Historical Walk
A nice, brief historical stop during your Old Quebec City tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Séminaire de Québec to be a beautiful and historically significant site, offering a peaceful respite in Old Quebec. The interactive signs are appreciated for providing historical context, and the architecture is noted as being very photogenic. Some visitors mention that access to buildings is limited and parts of the site may be under renovation.
"This is the old site of laval university and it is said the first university in Canada. Right now it is the home of the school of architecture of laval university.
There are 9 interactive sign spot within the campus. Due to the construction, we only are able to check 7 of them, it is impressive."
Peng Li
"In the heart of old Quebec stands tall,
A spire that whispers history's call.
Erected from dreams of the past,
Its shadow over centuries cast.
The Séminaire's spire, slender and grand,
A testament to a far-reaching hand.
François de Laval's vision in stone,
A legacy that we now own."
Duc C. Nguyên
"A little off the beaten path in Old Quebec, but an interesting site. Built on land originally owned by Louis Hebert, Quebec 's original "habitants" .
While the Seminary is obvious, there are no signs inviting you in. You enter the Seminary grounds through the Iron gate near the left side of the Basilica on Rue de Baude. The site is now home to the Laval University School of Architecture.
There are 8 informational signposts inside the grounds, starting at the inside of the courtyard and winding through the grounds - they are in French and English. Not sure if you can enter the buildings.
Be sure to see the big sundial on the side of the building in the courtyard and the outline of Guillemette Herbert's home which stood on the site until she sold the land the Seminary now sits on to Monseigneur Laval, Quebec's first Catholic bishop. She was Louis Herbert's daughter.
The Louis Hebert Monument is outside of the Seminary on Rue Ramparts. An excellent photo op!"
M Robson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Séminaire de Québec is located in the heart of Old Quebec City. You can easily walk to it from many popular attractions. Access the grounds through the iron gate near the Basilica on Rue de Baude.
Parking in Old Quebec can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transportation, walk, or park in a public parking garage and then walk to the Séminaire.
Yes, several RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale) bus lines serve the Old Quebec area, making it accessible via public transport. Check the RTC website for routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds of the Séminaire de Québec is generally free. However, access to specific buildings or guided tours may require tickets or advance booking.
The grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific building access may vary, and it's advisable to check for any scheduled events or renovations that might affect your visit.
While the grounds are accessible, direct entry into the buildings might be restricted as it houses the Laval University School of Architecture. Guided tours may offer limited interior access.
The Séminaire de Québec grounds are generally free to explore. There are no admission fees for walking around the courtyards and viewing the exterior historical markers.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The Séminaire offers beautiful architectural details, charming courtyards, and historical markers that make for excellent photo opportunities. The main courtyard with the sundial is particularly photogenic.
Yes, the Séminaire de Québec is a popular spot for wedding photography due to its historic charm and picturesque setting.
Experiment with shots capturing the spire, the courtyard's sundial, and the intricate stonework. The area around the Louis Hebert Monument also offers great perspectives.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Founded in 1663, it's one of the oldest monastic organizations in North America and was the site of the first university in Canada, Laval University. It holds significant historical and architectural importance.
The Séminaire was founded by Monseigneur François de Laval, Quebec's first Catholic bishop, with the vision of establishing an educational institution.
Today, the Séminaire de Québec is home to the Laval University School of Architecture, continuing its legacy of education and learning.
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