Complete Travel Guide to Lorette, Canada
Comprehensive travel guide to Lorette, Canada. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
Quick Info
- Country:Canada
- State/Province:Manitoba
- Population:253629


States in Canada
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
On This Page
Complete Travel Guide to Lorette, Canada
Lorette Longueuil is a city in the province of Quebec, Canada. It is the seat of the Montérégie administrative region and the central city of the urban agglomeration of Longueuil. It sits on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River directly across from Montreal. The population as of the Canada 2021 Census totalled 254,483, making it Montreal's second largest suburb, the fifth most populous city in Quebec and twentieth largest in Canada. Positioned at coordinates 49.73919°N, -96.87232°E, Lorette occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Lorette place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 15.0 meters above sea level, Lorette benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Lorette creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 253629 residents, Lorette maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Lorette represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Lorette reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Manitoba province, Lorette contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Lorette in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Lorette discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.
Historical Heritage of Lorette
History This section **needs expansion** You can help by adding to it _( March 2009)_ Ruins of Fort Longueuil in 1825 The territory of New France was divided into seigneuries in order to ensure the colony's defence Longueuil was founded in 1657 by Charles Le Moyne, a merchant from Ville-Marie (present day Montreal), as a seigneurie.
According to Abbé Faillon, Charles Le Moyne, lord of the area starting in 1657, named Longueuil after the village of Longueil (note slightly different spelling) which is today the seat of a canton in the district of Dieppe in his homeland of Normandy His son, Charles Le Moyne de Longueuil, built Fort Longueuil as his fortified residence.
It was constructed of stone between 1685 and 1690 and had four towers Fort Longueuil was believed to be occupied by American troops during the American Revolutionary War It was subsequently occupied by the British It was demolished in 1810 due to its poor condition.
The archaeological remains of Fort Longueuil were recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada on May 25, 1923 The site extends beneath the present-day Saint- Antoine-de-Padoue Cathedral The Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue and Rue St Charles, Longueuil, QC, about 1910 The seigneurial system ended in 1845 and Longueuil was turned into a parish municipality named Saint-Antoine-de-Longueuil.
In 1848, a portion detached from the parish and officially established as the village of Longueuil This same village became a town in 1874, and then a city in 1920 Musician Paul Pratt notably served as the city's mayor from 1935 to 1966 Former flag of Longueuil, used from 1967–2004 Longueuil's city limits expanded for the first time in 1961 when it merged with Montréal-Sud, and again in 1969 when it merged with Ville Jacques- Cartier.
In both cases, Longueuil was chosen as the name of the new city On January 1, 2002, as part of the 2000–2006 municipal reorganization in Quebec, the provincial government amalgamated the former Longueuil with Boucherville, Brossard, Greenfield Park, LeMoyne, Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Saint-Hubert and Saint-Lambert.
As with the 1960s, the name Longueuil was chosen for the new city However, after a change of government and a 2004 referendum, Boucherville, Brossard, Saint-Lambert and Saint-Bruno-de- Montarville were re-constituted as independent cities on January 1, 2006.
As such, the current city of Longueuil now includes only the former cities of Longueuil (1969–2002), Saint-Hubert, Greenfield Park and LeMoyne ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ LINTEAU, PAUL-ANDRÉ; CLAIRE POITRAS _The Canadian Encyclopedia_ Historica-Dominion Institute.
Archived from the original on June 21, 2012 Retrieved February 25, 2012 ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ Fort Longueuil _Canadian Register of Historic Places_ Retrieved 7 April 2012.
The historical trajectory of Lorette demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.
Historical preservation efforts in Lorette reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.
The legacy of historical development in Lorette remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.
Want to explore more cities in Manitoba?
Geographic Environment and Natural Setting
Geography Location of the city of Longueuil within the Urban Agglomeration of Longueuil. Longueuil occupies 115. 59 square kilometres (44. 6 sq mi) of land. The city is bordered by the cities of Saint-Lambert to the west, Brossard to the southwest, Boucherville to the northeast, Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville to the east, and the Saint Lawrence River and Montreal to the northwest. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The city of Longueuil is located approximately 7 kilometres (5 mi) east of Montreal on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Longueuil is located in the Saint Lawrence River valley, and is a vast plain. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Areas near the river were originally swamp land with mixed forest, and later prime agricultural land. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Agricultural land still exists in the portions of the city furthest from the river. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The city of Longueuil also includes Île Charron, a small island in the Saint Lawrence River, and part of the Boucherville Islands. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Street addresses in Longueuil increase west and east from the Chemin de Chambly, with suffixes of "Ouest" and "Est" used on east–west streets that cross it, and south from the Saint Lawrence River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. (As in Montreal, the local cardinal directions are skewed to align with the shore of the river, and local grid "north" is closer to geographic northwest. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Lorette, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. ) #Climate Like Montreal, Longueuil is classified as humid continental or hemiboreal (Köppen climate classification _Dfb_). Longueuil has long winters, lasting from November to March, short springs during April and May, average summers, lasting from June to August, and short autumns during September and October. Climate data for Montréal/Saint-Hubert Airport (1981–2010) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high humidex 15. 2 Record high °C (°F) 13. 1) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −5. 5) Daily mean °C (°F) −10. 1) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −15. 6) Record low °C (°F) −36. 0) Record low wind chill −49.
The topographic characteristics of Lorette result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.
Hydrological systems in the Lorette region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.
Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Lorette area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.
Natural resource availability in Lorette has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.
The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Lorette demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Lorette create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.
Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions
#Climate Like Montreal, Longueuil is classified as humid continental or hemiboreal (Köppen climate classification Dfb). Longueuil has long winters, lasting from November to March, short springs during April and May, average summers, lasting from June to August, and short autumns during September and October. Climate data for Montréal/Saint-Hubert Airport (1981–2010) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high humidex 15. 2 Record high °C (°F) 13. 1) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −5. 5) Daily mean °C (°F) −10. 1) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −15. 6) Record low °C (°F) −36. 0) Record low wind chill −49. 0 Average precipitation mm (inches) 75. Rainfall patterns in Lorette determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 82) Average rainfall mm (inches) 26. 83) Average snowfall cm (inches) 52. 1) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 0 (0) 1. 6) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Lorette determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 6 Average rainy days (≥ 0. 7 Average snowy days (≥ 0. 48 Source: Environment Canada 1. “Canadian Climate Normals - Climate - Environment and Climate Change Canada”. October 31, 2011.
The climatic regime of Lorette reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.
Temperature variations in Lorette create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.
Precipitation patterns in Lorette determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.
Seasonal weather patterns in Lorette create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.
The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Lorette demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Climate considerations for visitors to Lorette include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.
Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions
Demographics LongueuilYearPop. ±% 18511,496— 18612,816+88. 1% 195111,103+56. 7% 195614,332+29. 1% 196124,131+68. 1% 197197,590+281. 3% 1976122,429+25. 5% 1981124,320+1. 5% 1986125,441+0. 9% 1991129,808+3. 5% 1996127,977−1. 4% 2001128,016+0. 0% 2006229,230+79. 1% 2011231,409+1. 0% 2016239,700+3. 6% 2021254,483+6. 2% Historical populations (including annexed territories)YearPop. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 18713,977— 18814,488+12. 2% 192111,521+65. 0% 193114,094+22. 3% 194118,165+28. 9% 195158,012+219. 4% 195683,584+44. 1% 1961106,166+27. 0% 1966129,944+22. 4% 1971157,986+21. 6% 1976197,767+25. 2% 1981209,557+6. 0% 1986215,583+2. 9% 1991226,965+5. 3% 1996227,408+0. 2% 2001225,761−0. 7% 2006229,330+1. 6% 2011231,409+0. 9% 2016239,700+3. 6% 2021254,483+6. 2% In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Longueuil had a population of 254,483 living in 113,086 of its 117,006 total private dwellings, a change of 6. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1% from its 2016 population of 239,897. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 115. 70 sq mi), it had a population density of 2,198. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 3/sq mi) in 2021. Canada census – Longueuil community profile 202120162011 Population254,483 (+6. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1% from 2016)239,700 (+3. 6% from 2011)231,409 (+0. 9% from 2006) Land area115. 70 sq mi)115,785 km2 (44,705 sq mi)115. 63 sq mi) Population density2,198. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2/km2 (5,693/sq mi)2,070. 9/km2 (5,364/sq mi)2,002. 0/km2 (5,185/sq mi) Median age41. 5) Private dwellings117,006 (total) 110,761 (total) 106,499 (total) Median household income$71,500$58,626$58,317 References: 2021 2016 2011 Of the 147,805 workers in Longueuil, the median income was $36,400, which is above Quebec’s provincial average of $36,000. Among the 69,945 full-time workers, the median income was $58,000 or slightly below the provincial average. Several of Montreal’s most impoverished neighborhoods are located in Longueuil. #Language As of the 2021 Canadian Census, French was the mother tongue language of 71. Linguistic diversity in Lorette demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. 9% of Longueuil’s residents while English was the first language of 5. Linguistic diversity in Lorette demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. Other languages were spoken by 17. Linguistic diversity in Lorette demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. 8% of the population, with the most spoken being Spanish (4. The demographic composition of Lorette reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 9%), Romanian (0. 9%), Haitian Creole (0. 9%), Portuguese (0. 8%), Mandarin (0. These figures include multiple responses. Canada Census Mother Tongue - Longueuil, Quebec Mother tongue language Census Total French English French & English Other Year Responses Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % 2021 251,825 181,075 0. Linguistic diversity in Lorette demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. 8% 2016 237,665 182,7.
Arts and culture This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. ( March 2013) The Longueuil International Percussion Festival, which features 500 musicians, takes place over six days in July in the neighbourhood of Old Longueuil, and draws 200,000 visitors per year. “International Percussion Festival of Longueuil PrintPrint”. Les Rendez-Vous Loto-Québec. Archived from the original on May 8, 2014. Retrieved June 28, 2012.
The cultural landscape of Lorette represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.
Social organization in Lorette reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.
Traditional arts and crafts in Lorette continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.
Religious and spiritual practices in Lorette provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.
Language use and cultural expression in Lorette demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.
Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Lorette provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Activities and Development Patterns
Economy Old Longueuil Although a large portion of Longueuil's work force commutes to Montreal, the city nevertheless offers many jobs in a diverse range of industries. Above all, Longueuil benefits from having very low property value despite its close proximity to Montreal. [_citation needed_] Longueuil is particularly strong in the aerospace industry. It is home to the headquarters of both Pratt & Whitney Canada and Héroux-Devtek. Pratt & Whitney Canada is Longueuil's top employer with 5,000 employees, while Héroux-Devtek has 550 employees. Also located in Longueuil is the headquarters of the Canadian Space Agency (John H. Chapman Space Center), adjacent to Montréal/Saint-Hubert Airport. Pascan Aviation has its headquarters in Saint-Hubert, Longueuil. Other companies based in Longueuil include Agropur, Innergex Renewable Energy, and the Canadian subsidiary of Hasbro. In 2002 Artemano Canada, a home furnishing company was founded, with warehouse & distribution centre located in Longueuil. In 2008, Canadian Business ranked Longueuil as the 30th best place to do business in Canada. "Les 200 plus grandes entreprises". L' Information d'Affaires Rive-Sud. Retrieved February 11, 2013. " Canadian Space Agency. Retrieved on January 8, 2012. " Pascan Aviation. Retrieved on December 4, 2010. "Agropur inaugure son nouveau siège social". "Consumer Care - Hasbro". "The Best Places to do Business in Canada". Canadian Business. Archived from the original on November 6, 2008. Retrieved November 12, 2008.
The economic structure of Lorette reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Traditional economic activities in Lorette often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.
Local markets and commercial activities in Lorette serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.
Agricultural production in Lorette demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.
Service sector development in Lorette has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Lorette focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
#Public transportation A Réseau de transport de Longueuil bus. The Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) provides bus service in Longueuil. There are 80 bus routes and 12 shared taxi routes, with a ridership of approximately 18 million passengers in 2022. Ridership prior to the COVID-19 pandemic was approximately 30 million passengers. Almost all bus lines of the RTL terminate at the Longueuil Bus Terminus, or the Panama REM station in nearby Brossard. Prior to the opening of the REM South Shore branch, many buses normally terminating at Panama station crossed the Champlain Bridge during peak hours to arrive at the Terminus Centre-Ville in downtown Montreal (under the 1000 de la Gauchetière office tower, at Bonaventure Metro). Entrance to Longueuil Marina The city is also served by the Longueuil–Université-de-Sherbrooke Metro station, adjacent to the Longueuil bus terminus. The station connects to downtown Montreal via the Yellow Line of the Metro. The Réseau de transport métropolitain (RTM) runs the Mont-Saint-Hilaire commuter train line also serves the south shore. The only commuter train station in the city of Longueuil is Longueuil–Saint-Hubert station. Until the mid-1950s, Longueuil was served by interurban streetcars operated by the Montreal and Southern Counties Railway. Longueuil also has a small airport, Saint-Hubert Airport. It is one of Canada’s most important general aviation airports, ranked 12th busiest airport by aircraft movements. A small marina, the Réal-Bouvier Marina is located on the Saint Lawrence River in the borough of Le Vieux-Longueuil. The Old Port of Montreal–Longueuil Ferry is a seasonal ferry service links the Réal-Bouvier Marina to the Jacques Cartier Pier in the Old Port of Montreal. “Rapport annuel 2022” (PDF). Statistics (in French). Réseau de transport de Longueuil. Retrieved April 15, 2024. - Aircraft Movement Statistics: NAV CANADA Towers and Flight Service Stations: Annual Report 2007 Archived February 13, 2009, at the Wayback Machine 3. “River Ferries and Boats”. Ville de Longueuil. Retrieved June 15, 2012.
Transportation infrastructure serving Lorette reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Lorette.
Regional connectivity from Lorette provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.
Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities
Education The Longueuil campus of Université de Sherbrooke. Collège Édouard-Montpetit, the only French CEGEP in Longueuil The city of Longueuil is served by several educational institutions. Both the Université de Sherbrooke and Université de Montréal maintain campuses in the Borough of Le Vieux-Longueuil. There is one CEGEP in Longueuil, Collège Édouard-Montpetit, located in Le Vieux-Longueuil. Collège Édouard-Montpetit has an aerotechnic school, École nationale d’aérotechnique located at a separate campus in the borough of Saint-Hubert near Saint-Hubert Airport. There are two technical and professional colleges, both located in Le Vieux- Longueuil: these are the Pierre-Dupuy Professional Formation Centre and Collège Info-Technique. #Primary and secondary schools Public anglophone schools are operated by the Riverside School Board. There are three secondary schools in Longueuil operated by the Riverside School Board: Centennial Regional High School in Greenfield Park, Heritage Regional High School in Saint-Hubert, and Saint-Lambert International High School in Saint-Lambert. Public francophone schools are operated by the Commission scolaire Marie- Victorin. There are seven secondary schools in Longueuil operated by that district. École secondaire Internationale St-Edmond and École secondaire Participative l’Agora are in Greenfield Park. École secondaire André- Laurendeau and École secondaire Mgr-A.M.-Parent are in Saint-Hubert. École secondaire Gérard-Filion, École secondaire Jacques-Rousseau and École secondaire St-Jean-Baptiste are in Le Vieux-Longueuil. Prior to 1998 the South Shore Protestant Regional School Board served the municipality. There are also three private francophone secondary schools, all of which are in Le Vieux-Longueuil. They are Collège Charles-Lemoyne, Collège Français and Collège Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes. 1. King, M.J. (Chairperson of the board). “South Shore Protestant Regional School Board” (St. Johns, PQ). The News and Eastern Townships Advocate. Volume 119, No. 5. Thursday December 16, 1965. p. 2. Retrieved from Google News on November 23, 2014.
Educational institutions in Lorette serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.
Planning Your Visit to Lorette
Successful visits to Lorette require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.
The most meaningful experiences in Lorette often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.
Practical considerations for visiting Lorette include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The rewards of visiting Lorette extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.
Explore More in Lorette
Find the best local businesses, services, and attractions.
Find Important Places in Your CityBuy affordable traveling and other essential products nearby in Lorette:
Shop Travel Products