Connaught Barracks (Quebec City, Quebec)

 park, historical building

Connaught Barracks stands within the walls of the Saint Louis Bastion in Québec’s old defence system, an important part of the military landscape of upper town.

Building 1 is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical Value
Building 1 is a very good building associated with the defence of the City of Québec in the colonial defence system under the British Regime. At the turn of the 19th century, a deteriorating political and military situation led authorities to increase the number of personnel in the City of Québec. Construction of the barracks met a pressing need for adequate housing of troops. The barracks were subsequently used for a variety of purposes including a military prison, artillery magazine, depot and later as offices. The Connaught Barracks are also part of the historic district of Old Québec, which was created in 1963 and later declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.

Architectural Value
Valued for its good aesthetics, Building 1 is constructed on the principals of English military classicism. Its solid masonry walls are clearly defensive while its functional qualities are demonstrated through its adaptability. The construction work exhibits good craftsmanship.

Environmental Value
Building 1 reinforces the historic character of its site near the citadel of Québec, and together with the associated adjacent buildings is a well-known local landmark.