📖 About Sherbrooke

Sherbrooke is the cultural and economic hub of Quebec's Eastern Townships (Estrie region), located at the confluence of the Saint-François and Magog rivers. With approximately 170,000 residents in the metropolitan area, this university city is Quebec's sixth-largest, known for murals, education, and access to the beautiful Townships countryside.

The city features extensive outdoor murals (over 20 large-scale works), the Université de Sherbrooke campus, and historic neighborhoods. Nearby lakes and ski hills offer four-season recreation. Sherbrooke represents Francophone Quebec—cultural vitality, educational excellence, and gateway to the Townships' rolling hills and villages.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Education drives Sherbrooke's economy—two universities (Université de Sherbrooke, Bishop's) and college programs bring students and research. Healthcare is a major employer. Technology and innovation sectors are growing. Manufacturing includes textiles and food processing. The city serves as regional commercial and service center for the Eastern Townships.

French-Canadian culture predominates—Francophone traditions are strong despite English-speaking heritage of the Townships. Cultural festivals and outdoor arts create vibrancy. Catholic heritage persists in architecture. Food features Quebec cuisine—poutine, maple products, and regional cheeses. The culture balances academic atmosphere with Quebec joie de vivre.

📜 History

Abenaki peoples originally inhabited the confluence area. English Loyalists settled the Eastern Townships after the American Revolution. Sherbrooke was founded in 1802 and named after Sir John Coape Sherbrooke. Industry developed along the rivers—textiles and manufacturing drove growth.

French Canadians gradually became the majority through the 20th century. The Université de Sherbrooke opened in 1954. The mural program began in 2002, transforming downtown. Today Sherbrooke is proudly Francophone—university city, artistic expression, and capital of Quebec's scenic Eastern Townships.