Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour in Québec

A Unique Look at the Morbid Side of Old Quebec: Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour

If you’re curious about Quebec’s history of death and burial practices during the 17th century, this Death in New-France tour offers a fascinating journey into the darker aspects of early colonial life. Priced at just under $20 per person, it’s a compact 75-minute walk through the Upper Town of Old Quebec, starting outside the Infotourist Center at 12 rue Sainte-Anne and ending near the Morrin Center. The tour is led by a lively guide who uses animations and storytelling to bring 17th-century funeral rites, cemeteries, and social customs to life (or death!).

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines visual storytelling with historical context, making some of the more macabre details accessible and engaging. First, the animated elements bring to life the funerary secrets of the period, helping us understand how settlers viewed death—an essential perspective if you’re interested in the social fabric of colonial Quebec. Second, the tour’s walk through Old Quebec’s historic sites feels intimate, providing a tangible connection to the past.

One possible consideration is that the tour is not recommended for younger children, under 13, likely due to the morbid themes. Also, at just over an hour, it’s a relatively brief experience, so those looking for a deep dive might want to supplement it with other explorations of Quebec’s history.

This tour suits history buffs, those with a fascination for funeral customs, and anyone interested in understanding how early settlers dealt with mortality. If you enjoy stories that reveal the often unseen or hidden aspects of a city’s past, this tour offers an entertaining and educational glimpse into Quebec’s historical graveyard secrets.

Key Points

• Unique Focus on Death: This tour explores funerary customs, cemeteries, and burial rites in New France, offering a rare perspective on 17th-century life.
• Animated Storytelling: Engages visitors through animated visuals that make historical mortuary practices more relatable and memorable.
• Concise Duration: At 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s a manageable experience that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
• Affordable Price: For under $20, it provides an accessible way to deepen your understanding of Quebec’s history.
• Historical Context: Includes notable sites like the Monument De Francois De Laval, enriching the story with real landmarks.
• Not Suitable for Young Children: Due to morbid themes, it’s recommended for those 13 and older.

A Detailed Look at the Death in New-France Tour

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins outside the Infotourist Center, a convenient location in Quebec City’s Upper Town. From the moment we gather with our guide, who is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, you sense that this is more than just a walk—it’s a peek into the hidden stories that shaped early Quebec life.

The group size tends to be small enough to allow for personal interaction, which enhances the storytelling experience. The admission fee is included in the ticket price, which is a nice touch, considering some tours charge extra for access to historic sites.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

First Stop: Monument De Francois De Laval
This is the departure point and a significant landmark. Francois De Laval was the first bishop of Quebec, and his monument anchors the tour historically. It’s a starting point that sets the tone, hinting at Quebec’s religious and cultural influence on death practices.

Followed by a walk through Old Quebec’s streets—the tour’s length allows us to see some of the city’s timeless architecture while listening to stories about how the early colonists approached death and burial. The guide shares well-researched tales, and the animations vividly illustrate ancient funeral rites and burial customs, which we found surprisingly captivating.

Mortuary Secrets and Burial Customs

The real highlight is uncovering “well-buried” mortuary secrets—a phrase that perfectly captures the tour’s tone. We loved the way the guide discussed the disposal of bodies among different social classes: criminals, the poor, and the elite all had distinct rites. It’s eye-opening to learn that, for instance, execution victims often faced different burial protocols, and the poor’s graves were sometimes unmarked or in ancient cemeteries.

The tour also discusses ancient cemeteries, providing context on how settler communities viewed death as a passage rather than an end. We appreciated the historical perspective on how death was not only a personal event but also a social and religious one. The animations helped visualize these practices, making the stories much more tangible.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The tone of the tour is morbid but with a touch of humor, making the darker stories easier to digest. Our guide was lively and engaging, with a knack for balancing respect and entertainment. It’s clear they are passionate about sharing Quebec’s unsung stories.

The walking pace is moderate, with some standing and listening, so travelers should have a moderate fitness level. Since the tour is conducted outdoors, weather can influence the experience—an overcast or slightly chilly day can add to the atmosphere but be sure to dress accordingly.

Additional Details on the Experience

The cost of $19.80 is reasonable considering the included admission and the quality of storytelling. The tour is a good value for history enthusiasts who want a focused, thematic experience that differs from typical walking tours. The free cancellation policy is a bonus, allowing flexibility in your planning.

People reviews, though sparse, mention that the animation and storytelling were particularly well-done. One reviewer noted, “The tales of the graves and funerary rites were surprisingly lively, considering the dark theme,” which sums up the experience nicely.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: On average, it’s booked about 45 days ahead, so plan ahead if you’re visiting during peak season.
• Be prepared for outdoor walking: Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
• Age considerations: Best suited for travelers 13 and older due to the morbid themes.
• Group size and interaction: Expect a small group with a friendly guide, which enhances the storytelling.
• Timing: The tour lasts about 75 minutes, fitting well into a morning or afternoon exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers with a curiosity for historical customs and the more somber aspects of Quebec’s past. If you enjoy stories about funeral rites and ancient cemeteries, or if you’re fascinated by how people in the 17th century viewed death, you’ll find this tour both informative and entertaining. It’s also suitable for those wanting a break from more traditional sightseeing, offering a unique theme that’s both morbid and enlightening.

However, it might not suit families with young children or travelers who prefer lighter, more visual sightseeing. The dark themes and focus on death mean it’s best for mature audiences who can appreciate the historical context without discomfort.

The Sum Up

For a modest price, the Death in New-France Animated Guided Tour offers a compelling glimpse into Quebec’s morbid past. Its combination of animated storytelling, real landmarks, and engaging narration makes it stand out as a unique way to explore the city’s history beyond the usual tourist spots.

Travelers who love history, ghostly tales, or cultural customs will find this tour both enlightening and entertaining, with enough detail to deepen your appreciation of Quebec’s past. The walk is manageable, the themes are well-presented, and the stories stay with you long after the tour concludes.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking experience that uncovers the hidden stories beneath Quebec’s charming streets, this tour is a real find. Just remember that it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of darkness in their historical explorations.

FAQ

Is this tour appropriate for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 13 due to the morbid themes surrounding death and funerary practices.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a manageable segment in your day.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price includes the animated guided tour and admission to the site at the starting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Infotourist Center at 12 rue Sainte-Anne and ends outside the Morrin Center.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transportation, making it easy to reach in Quebec City.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress according to the weather, especially since part of the tour is outdoors.

What’s the main theme of this tour?
The tour focuses on funeral rites, burial practices, and attitudes toward death in 17th-century New France.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 45 days ahead, so early booking is wise during peak times.