2025 | Commencement of work on Place de Namur in Quebec City

A new public space at the heart of the partnership between two fortified towns.

A delegation from the City of Namur, led by Ms. Anne Barzin, First Deputy Mayor of Namur in charge of International Relations, visited Quebec City from 27 to 29 July 2025. On this occasion, the City of Québec announced the start of development on Place de Namur, a new public space located at the intersection of Saint-Nicolas, Vaisseaux-du-Roi and Côte de la Potasse streets, near the ramparts of Old Québec.

A space that echoes the shared history of fortified towns.

The two capitals share many ties: the same French-speaking heritage, the same history of fortified cities, and the same development at the confluence of rivers, which is illustrated in Danielle April’s work ‘Confluence’.

This symbolic gesture, which echoes the Place de Québec in the heart of Namur’s pedestrian zone, celebrates a cooperation that continues to grow stronger.

A user-friendly and secure layout.

Namur Square will offer an expanded pedestrian area, safe crossings, rest areas with benches and green spaces. The pedestrian area will be increased by 215 m² and 100 m² will be dedicated to greenery, with the addition of at least three trees. This new development will facilitate movement and provide a meeting and relaxation place for the citizens of Quebec City.

Art at the heart of the square.

Place de Namur will host an interactive interpretation module inspired by the 40th anniversary of Old Quebec’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This module will allow passers-by to see and touch objects on display, including a reproduction of La Hure du Grognon, an 18th-century bas-relief donated by Namur. An original work of art, Confluence, designed by Quebec artist Danielle April, will also be installed. This human-scale sculpture illustrates the similarities between Namur and Quebec City, both located at the confluence of rivers, and features place names shared by the two cities engraved on the sculpture’s undulating lines.

Strengthening cultural and heritage ties

The Namur mission also made it possible to continue collaborations as part of a co-creation residency in electronic music, as well as the sharing of expertise between the Citadel of Namur and the Citadel of Quebec. Les Échasseurs and Alfers hosted performances in the city, promoting Namur’s intangible heritage and creating opportunities for exchange with citizens.

This initiative symbolises the strength and reciprocity of the ties between Namur and Québec, offering the population a cultural, historical and convivial space in the heart of the Québec capital.