Sainte-Thècle, Quebec, is a picturesque Canadian municipality nestled in the Mékinac Regional County Municipality, within the Batiscanie watershed, in the administrative region of Mauricie. This 216 square kilometer municipality is renowned for its resorts, small lakes, and outdoor activities. Its rich agricultural and forestry industries have shaped its history, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Sainte-Thècle is strategically located at the junction of provincial roads 153 and 352. Road 153 connects Yamachiche to Lac-aux-Sables through Saint-Tite, while route 352 runs east-west from Trois-Rivières, through Saint-Stanislas, Saint-Adelphe, and Sainte-Thècle. The municipality shares borders with several other towns, including Saint-Tite, Grandes-Piles, Saint-Roch-de-Mékinac, Trois-Rives, Lac-aux-Sables, and Saint-Adelphe. The highest Laurentian Mountains of Middle Mauricie are located in the northwestern part of Sainte-Thècle, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Sainte-Thècle's territory is characterized by five river sub-basins of the Batiscanie and one of the Saint-Maurice River, making it a unique hydrographic location.
Sainte-Thècle is home to a diverse population, with French being the first language for 98.2% of its citizens. English is the first language for 0.4% of the population, while 1.0% speak other languages.
Since the mid-20th century, Sainte-Thècle has used a blazon trifecta from the College of Arms of Canada. The golden triangle in the upper part of the shield symbolizes the saints and heroes of history, while the second trifecta represents the timber industry. The third trifecta embodies the workforce and bravery, with bees symbolizing laboriousness and respect.
The name of the municipality originates from Saint Thècle, a martyred virgin of the 1st century who was converted to Christianity and educated by Saint Paul. The toponymy of the rows of the parish embodies the run-up of Christendom of the 19th century.
