June 18, 2010

Tourists in Quebec: Quartier Petit Champlain

Old, charming, narrow buildings full of fashion and artisan shops and cafés squished into a long, narrow street—welcome to the Petit-Champlain Neighborhood of Vieux-Québec.

Rue de Petit-Champlain, Quebec City


The signs of the shops are just as interesting and lovely as the merchandise that they sell and I couldn't help but think of Raf and his Hang Ups blog. This Woodpecker's Shop specializes in wooden sculptures and products. (What else?)

shop sign at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City


I saw these cats at a window watching people as they walk by and I just had to take their photo for dear, sweet Luna.

wooden cats at a shop window at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City


Halfway down Rue du Petit-Champlain is a small park where shoppers can rest their weary feet. The neighborhood is built at the foot of the cliff below Château Frontenac and the cliff's stone can easily be seen in the park.

small park at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City


I'd never seen building, shop or house numbers with 1/2 before.

shop number 67 and 1/2 at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City


At the southern end of the street is the Petit-Champlain Mural, illustrating the origins and history of the neighborhood.

Fresque du Petit-Champlain at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City


At the northern end of the street is Breakneck Steps, which is how one walks between Quartier Petit Champlain and the upper town of Old Quebec. There are several shops and cafés just off the stairs to break the climb. However, if your knees really can't handle them, there is always the Funiculaire du Vieux Québec.

Escalier Casse-Cou at Quartier Petit Champlain, Quebec City

22 comments:

  1. It's always interesting to see what catches the eye of a traveler. It looks like you had a wonderful time and great weather. Aren't trips fun?

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  2. Hilda, it is so much fun 'doing' Quebec with you.

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  3. the painting on the building's walls is amazing! so good that it represents what it used to be. it somehow retained its character.

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  4. Very nice shots, Hilda. What an interesting quarter indeed. I know it from an US/Canada visit.

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  5. Oh my goodness, that looks like a ginat spider. The images are beautiful and quirky. The house with the mural is wonderful and - 67 and a half? Is there really such an address? What fun you seem to be having.
    Cheers.
    Melbourne Daily Photo

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  6. Great photos. The mural is wonderful. I'm now tempted to rush out to photograph 1 and a half Whip ma whop ma gate in York for Jorvik DP.

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  7. All these photos are wonderful. I want to visit now!!! I would definitely have to visit the pique-bois shop. Too cute!

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  8. Sweet Hilda,
    You are such a special friend to remember me while you are enjoying this lovely city there!Thanks so much, I'm honored.Those "cats"in the window shop are beautiful!I love their thinking look, I bet they are very intelligent cats, I'm impressed! :)
    Love your pictures, thanks a lot!
    purrs and a blessed weekend to you all
    Luna - We love Luna and hugs from mommy Léia

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  9. Another absolutely wonderful series of shots. I would love to spend a day wandering about in this area...It looks fun and whimsical and very entertaining!

    Your photos are superb as usual!

    Re the mural - one of the best I've ever seen!

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  10. Wonderful pictures again Hilda! I almost feel like I am there with you. You are making me want to visit Quebec!

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  11. Hi Hithank you for your comment on my blog. I´m very excited about my pregnancy, yes, it´s my first. I do believe this nausea will pass soon...
    I didn´t know you were in Quebec, what wonderful pictures! This must be a very nice trip, thanks for sharing.

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  12. I like those guys hanging on the street. The upside down one is so funny!

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  13. Quebec and Montreal cities are always on top of my to go list, but these posts are making want to go now.

    I could see those cats inside my living room :)

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  14. belle promenade, et j'adore la peinture murale

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  15. Fabulous post Hilda! I can't decide which photo is my favourite, simply like all of them:)

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  16. You are the perfect guide and I really like each one of your finds!

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  17. I love your pictures! Quebec should be paying you for being such a great promoter of their city! One day I will go to Quebec too :)

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  18. I've never been to Quebec. I'm going to have to do something about that after seeing your wonderful pictures.

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  19. We are enjoying the tour of Quebec with you as tour guide, Hilda.
    ;-D

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  20. You really weren't kidding when you said your feet hurt from walking so much ;D Love the photos!

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Thanks for visiting and letting me know!