National Flag and Emblems
Québec’s national emblems recall the history of the province. They affirm the French identity and origin of the majority of the population and evoke the ties between Québec and Great Britain.
Flag
The Fleurdelisé is a reflection of our history in America and Québec’s most iconic symbol. It is flown over every public administration building.
Coat of arms
The coat of arms reflects Québec’s political history. The gold fleurs-de-lis on a blue background represent the French regime. The leopard on a red background evokes the British regime. The sprig of maple leaves symbolizes pre-Confederation Canada.
Motto
The motto “Je me souviens” (I remember) is attributed to architect Eugène-Étienne Taché (1836-1912). He decorated the façade of the Parliament Building with depictions of various figures in Québec history: Amerindians, explorers, missionaries, soldiers and public administrators from the French and English regimes. The motto above the main door summarizes the architect’s intentions: I remember . . . all that this façade recalls.
Emblems
The yellow birch, whose scientific Latin name is Betula alleghaniensis Britton, is the official tree of Québec.
The blue flag, whose scientific Latin name is Iris versicolor Linné, is the floral emblem of Québec.
The snowy owl, whose scientific Latin name is Nyctea scandiaca (Linné), is the avian emblem of Québec.
Representative objects
The mission of Les Publications du Québec is to publish and market a wide variety of products from government departments and agencies: Québec flag and pins, books for the general public, specialized books, etc.
Useful links
General information