Université Laval
Located in Québec’s capital, Université Laval is one of the major Canadian universities. In the fall of 2008, Université Laval offered 395 study programs and welcomed 38 060 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Ranked 7th in terms of research funding among the 94 universities in Canada, it had a research budget or $ 268 million in 2007.
Its origins date back to 1663, when Monseigneur de Laval, first bishop of New France, founded the Séminaire de Québec. A Royal Charter establishing Université Laval was granted by Queen Victoria in 1852. Shortly after, in 1878, Université Laval opened a “branch” in Montréal. Université Laval in Montréal became, in 1920, Université de Montréal. Canada’s first university, Université Laval represents the origin of all higher education in French in America.
The campus is located in the borough of Sainte-Foy-Sillery, on a magnificent 190 hectares land. One can find on the campus service buildings, residences, sports facilities and a multitude of points of interest for an institution of higher learning. Most of the conference activities will take place in the Ferdinand-Vandry building.
Campus map (pdf file)
Québec City
Québec City abounds in attractions. Historic Old Québec is the best known of all. This lively walled part of the city, with its winding streets and quaint town squares, traces its roots nearly 400 years back to the founding of the city in 1608, and is the cradle of French civilization in America.
Today, Old Québec is renowned for its European charm and unique architectural beauty. Boutiques and cafés line the streets, horse-drawn calèches clip-clopping past stately heritage homes, musicians serenade passers-by, and strollers stop for a view of the river from the cliffside boardwalk. This pedestrian-friendly and thoroughly enjoyable district is like a living history book, with a story to tell at every turn. In 1985, UNESCO recognized its immense historical value by declaring it a “World Heritage Treasure.”
Within minutes of the center of town are mountains, lakes, rivers, protected wilderness areas, rolling farmland, and much more. Right in the heart of the city are the Plains of Abraham, an immense urban park where people love to ski, stroll, mountain bike, picnic, inline skate, and simply relax. In fact, there are outdoor activities to suit every age and ability level.
Tourist information :
Climate
Climate statistics for Sainte-Foy : link to Environment Canada website
