Chambly, Quebec, a charming off-island suburb of Montreal, is nestled in the Montérégie region of southwestern Quebec, Canada. This picturesque town, located inland from the South Shore of the Saint Lawrence River, was formed in 1965 from the merger of Fort-Chambly and the old city of Chambly.
Chambly, Quebec, is beautifully situated on the Richelieu River in the Regional County Municipality of La-Vallée-du-Richelieu. Its coordinates are 45°27′00″N 73°17′27″W, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
Chambly, Quebec, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when European immigrants first settled in the area. However, it was not officially incorporated as a city until 1965. The town's history is closely tied to the journey of Samuel de Champlain, who passed through the area in 1609 and left a vivid description of the region in his journal.
During the American Invasion of Canada in 1775-76, Fort Chambly was captured by American forces. It was held until the spring of 1776 when it was evacuated and burned as the Americans retreated southward to Fort Ticonderoga. The fort also served as a prison for prisoners-of-war from the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.
The College of Chambly, chartered on March 21, 1835, in Lower Canada, is another significant historical landmark in the city.
Chambly, Quebec, is home to the massive Fort Chambly, a classic French fortification built between 1709 and 1711. Today, the fort is a National Historic Site of Canada, run by Parks Canada. It houses a museum and interpretive centre and hosts historical re-enactments of military drills and contemporary cultural events.
The Chambly Canal, another National Historic Site run by Parks Canada, was built in 1843 to bypass several kilometers of successive Richelieu River rapids. Today, the canal is a popular spot for tourists, pleasure boats in the summer, and ice skaters in the winter.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Chambly, Quebec, had a population of 31,444 living in 12,405 of its 12,609 total private dwellings. This represented an 8% increase from its 2016 population of 29,120.
The exo Chambly-Richelieu-Carignan region provides commuter and local bus services, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate the city. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a charming place to visit, Chambly, Quebec, has something for everyone.
