In the region's agricultural zones, specially in the TŽmiscamingue region, an unusual kind of architectural structure may be seen: the double barn. These structures consist of two (sometimes even three) barns built side by side and connected together by a passageway 3 to 10 metres long. In some cases, the second barn is not parallel but perpendicular to the first.

The architecture of double barns may be viewed as an original and practical adaptation to the rigours of QuŽbec's climate. These barns made it possible for several important farm operations to be performed under the same roof. They were at once a hayloft, a cowshed, a stable, a threshing floor, a machinery shed and even a dairy. This ingenious arrangement contributed greatly to making the work of the farmer and his family easier.

Photos:
Double barns in St-Bruno-de-Guigues and NŽdŽlec. Centre de QuŽbec des ANQ.