Limoilou—a tightly knit neighbourhood

Limoilou is first and foremost a family neighbourhood. Everyone knows each other, says hello and helps each other out. It’s a tightly knit neighbourhood! The narrow streets and alleyways are filled with life! Neighbours gather, children play and cats rule.

You can find murals here and there, in unexpected places. Majestic trees stand before the brick buildings with spiral staircases, giving the neighbourhood its unique feel.

Limoilou’s business life is centered around 3e Avenue, a section of which is reserved for pedestrians in the summer. An array of thriving businesses reside between 2e and 16e streets.

At the corner of Chemin de la Canardière and 3e Avenue, artist Guillaume Tardif’s sculpture called Gros Loup, meaning “big wolf,” stands high above the street as a representative of the neighbourhood’s spirit.

The metal scrolls that make up the sculpture’s body are a nod to a well-known design in the neighbourhood—remnants of skate blades. These same designs can be found on railings and banisters throughout Limoilou.

These pretty scraps came from the St. Lawrence Manufacturing Company, a Québec City business that set up shop in the Saint-Roch District after World War II. When it was in its prime, the company was the world’s largest producer of skate blades.

The remnants were not thrown out. Instead, tinsmiths used them as decorative elements. When you’re out walking, be on the lookout for them. They’re everywhere!

It’s worth taking a detour to the corner of 2e Avenue and 8e Street. The former Saint-Esprit Church has been home to the École de Cirque de Québec circus school since 2003.

The church’s architectural transformation converted the vast interior spaces into aerial practice rooms, dance studios and multi-purpose performance spaces.

The original colourful stained-glass windows, arches and structure were preserved, creating a unique atmosphere where architectural heritage meets contemporary art. This metamorphosis has enriched not only Limoilou’s urban landscape, but also the community’s cultural life, and attracts visitors and artists from far and wide.

Limoilou is a neighbourhood with a rich history, culture and community life. Its authenticity will delight you as you discover another side of Québec City!