This unique site is a vibrant testimony to the far-reaching impact of European cultural influence and the Christian religion. Judging by the multitude of languages we heard during our visit, Europeans know about this and the word-of-mouth is going strong! (Their audio wand is available in twelve languages.) We found costumed attendants busying themselves with chores reminiscent of the times. Children loved to explore the buildings freely. We adopted their rhythm and therefore did not see everything. Yet, we took the time to view the river from above the bastion. We climbed up and down the stairs inside the Jesuits' residence. Everything was made in wood, even the plates on the table. We tried on clothing in the shoemaker's shop. We saw an attendant start a fire with stones. My young trappers loved the wigwam and the 3-metre-high sunflowers. At the end, we enjoyed the coolness of the Sainte Marie Museum, decorated with great refinement. The result of careful and extensive research, the museum harmoniously blended expressions of 17th Century French culture, the frugal materialism of Canada's early settlers and the native culture.
Their Christmas event First Light in in its 16th year. For the occasion, they light up the village with 5,000 candles and lanterns and offer a line-up of family activities. It must be quite a sight!
