Matapédia

Matapédia is a municipality located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region of Quebec, Canada. It is situated at the confluence of the Matapédia River and the Restigouche River, a location that has historically been significant for transportation and trade. The name "Matapédia" itself is derived from the Mi'kmaq word "matagabieg," meaning "where the rivers meet."

The area's natural landscape is characterized by its river valleys and surrounding forests, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing and hunting. Matapédia is part of the larger Gaspé Peninsula, known for its rugged beauty and natural resources. The municipality serves as a gateway to the Gaspé region for those traveling from the west.

Historically, Matapédia was an important portage route and meeting place for Indigenous peoples. European settlement began in the 19th century, with logging and fishing being early economic activities. The arrival of the railway further cemented its role as a transportation hub. Today, while facing the economic shifts common to many rural communities, Matapédia maintains a connection to its natural surroundings and its past. The municipality is a stop along Quebec Route 132, a scenic highway that circumnavigates the Gaspé Peninsula.