This picturesque plaza is the literal and spiritual heart of Basse-Ville. Royal Square is a short walk from the bottom of Breakneck Stairs, via rue Sous-le-Fort. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was the town marketplace and the center of business and industry. The Eglise Notre-Dame-des-Victoires -- the oldest stone church in Québec, built in 1688 and restored in 1763 and 1969 -- dominates the enclosed square. The paintings, altar, and large model boat suspended from the ceiling were votive offerings brought by early settlers to ensure safe voyages. The church is usually open to visitors during the day, unless a wedding is underway.

Folk dances, impromptu concerts, and other festive gatherings are often held near the bust of Louis XIV in the center of the square.

All the buildings on the square have been restored. For years, there was only an empty lot behind the stone facade at the northeast corner, but now it is a whole building again. On the ground floor is the new Centre d'Interprétation de Place-Royale. Inside, a multimedia show and other exhibitions detail the nearly 4-century history and development of the plaza. Free guided tours of the plaza and surrounding area are available from the interpretation center in both English and French.