Settled in the mid-1600s, Trois-Rivieres is one of Canada’s oldest European settlements and the second oldest city in the country. Numerous local attractions offer visitors a glimpse of the area’s extensive history. The Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site and the Pulp and Paper Industry Exhibition Centre allow visitors to learn about two of the area’s most important industries. The Ursulines’ Museum was originally a convent started in 1697, and was the city’s first hospital. Past meets present at the Quebec Museum of Folk Culture, which has exhibitions on popular culture in the province but is also home to the Old Prison of Trois Rivieres, a jail opened in 1822. La Galerie d’Art du Parc houses several art exhibits, including those associated with the National Biennial of Contemporary Sculpture and the National Biennial of Contemporary Prints. Enjoy views of the St. Lawrence River while sampling the city’s finest restaurants, and experience local cultural and history during a visit to Trois-Rivieres.