Discovered in 2005 at the confluence of the St. Lawrence River and Cap Rouge rivers in Quebec, the Cartier-Roberval archaeological site unmasks the first chapter of French colonization in North America.

Archaeological research has preserved the first French colony in North America, constructed between 1541 and 1543 which were settled by 500 people. In 2018, the site was recognized under the Cultural Heritage Act as one of the most important archaeological sites in Quebec and Canada.

On arrival, a pedestrian passage leads to a visitor centre. Integrated into the wooded landscape, the black building derives its colour from the Japanese technique of burnt wood cladding, designed by CIRCUM as a nod to the original fortress’s destruction by fire in the 16th century. From there, visitors descend along a path where the interpretive trail is lined with steel panel explaining the historical importance of the site.

The path leads under an elevated railway crossing and on to a cantilevered footbridge extending 12 metres over a cliff above the river, le cap Diamant. A protective tunnel marks the entrance of the footbridge. Designed in reference of the traditional longhouse, the tunnel bears witness to the encounter between indigenous peoples and Europeans.

Challenged by the site, CIRCUM designed the cantilevered footbridge with a minimal footprint. The structure is defined by clean lines and transparent barriers, minimizing the presence of the architecture in favor of an immersive experience. As a reference of the European quest for gold, CIRCUM designed a golden anodized aluminium solid wall. On the other side, a railing of ultra-clear glass eliminates the limits of the walkway.

The combination landscape, archaeology, architecture and museology set the stage for the imagination to envision life 500 years ago, with 360-degree views of the archeological site, the rivers below, and the surrounding nature-based horizon.

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Team

Gabriel Morisson

Designer

Frederique Murphy

assistant project manager

Jonathan Bisson

Architect

Caroline Lajoie

Architect-museographer

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Site Archéologique Cartier-Roberval * Cartier-Roberval Archaeological Site / PROLOGUE

Québec City, Canada

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Site Archéologique Cartier-Roberval * Cartier-Roberval Archaeological Site / PROLOGUE

Québec City, Canada

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Site Archéologique Cartier-Roberval * Cartier-Roberval Archaeological Site / PROLOGUE

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Product Spec Sheet

Collaborating Firms

Team