[2019] Beating of the Retreat at the Citadelle of Quebec
Channel: he11 ange1
Date: 22/10/2021

The Beating of the Retreat is based on a European tradition dating back to the 16th century. It signals the end of the day’s service and the closing of the fortress gates. Guards, wearing full regimental dress with scarlet tunic and bearskin hat, assemble on the parade square to lower the colours to the sound of rifle fire and the Canadian National Anthem. The Royal 22e Régiment Band provides musical accompaniment.

The Citadelle of Québec is the largest British fortress in North America. It is an integral part of the Québec fortifications and is located on Cape Diamond, the city's highest point. The Citadelle was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1980 and is part of the Historic District of Old Québec, which was placed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1985.

Its first occupants were British troops, followed by the Royal Canadian Artillery. It remains an active garrison and since 1920 is home to the Royal 22e Régiment, the Canadian Forces' sole French-language regular force infantry regiment.

Having narrowly repelled the American invasion of Canada during the War of 1812, the British decided to re-examine their defensive strategy. Charles Lennox, Duke of Richmond and Governor-in-Chief of British North America, was given the task and drew up plans to build and improve defensive works at strategic locations. Lieutenant-Colonel Elias Walker Durnford of the British Army was entrusted with building the Citadelle of Québec. His star fort shape is based on designs by French engineer Sébastien Le Prestre Vauban. Construction spanned from 1820 to 1850, and the Citadelle is today an integral part of the fortifications of Québec.