The “cradle of French colonization” on the continent is now highlighted with today’s inauguration of the important Cartier-Roberval archaeological site in Cap-Rouge.
Jacques Cartier settled near the Cap-Rouge river during his third voyage in 1541. Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval occupied the site the following year.
“It is the cradle of the first French colony in America. The historic, historic and identity value of this site is inestimable,” said Deputy Prime Minister Geneviève Guilbault. The site is in his riding style of Louis-Hébert.
“It’s a historic site in the heart of Huron-Wendat ancestral territory. This place is deeply tied to the history of our respective nations,” said Carlo Gros-Louis, director of culture and heritage for the Huron-Wendat nation.
Mr Gros-Louis pointed out that the inauguration took place on the eve of National Indigenous Peoples Day.
“The Iroquois were very present here,” continued Mr. Gros-Louis. The village of Stadaconé, the largest in the area, had more than 1,000 inhabitants. I am pleased that the Huron-Wendat Nation was able to participate in the archaeological research. Out of a duty to remember, but also because we were able to integrate our perspective into this important time in history. It is also thanks to this scholarly research that we can now reposition certain historical facts and offer a more up-to-date interpretation of this era.
Ms Guilbault added that 6,000 artifacts were found during excavations between 2006 and 2010 but all were abandoned.
“The priority was to stop the decay of the site, which was unknown, and then ensure its development,” explained Ms. Guilbault.
Some of the artifacts will be part of an exhibition at the Musée de la Civilization next year.
An augmented reality application makes it possible to visualize the place as it was during this first founding attempt.
A viewing bridge was also built across the river.
The project, launched in 2018, represents an investment of US$8.4 million, including US$1.2 for the exhibition and US$2.5 for a research project at Université Laval to explore the further document found items.
The National Capital Commission developed the project and is responsible for the site.
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