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The Fortress of Louisbourg is one of the most important colonial forts to visit in Canada. The Fortress tells the tale of the colonial rivalries between the British and French in North America - including the turning point of the struggle to what went on to become Canada. This history is also part of what is today the United States - especially the northeastern states like New York and Maine.

There are many reasons why Nova Scotia is a dreamy destination in Canada for many travelers. The Maritime province is a charming land with sweeping views, rich history, and much more. Another even more historic place to visit on Canada's Atlantic shores is the site of L'Anse aux Meadows, where the Vikings landed exactly 1,000 years ago.

History & Importance Of The Fortress Of Louisbourg

The Fortress of Louisbourg was a powerful French colonial fort in what is today Nova Scotia near Sydney (not that Sydney). The first European settlement of the site dates from 1713 that grew into a fortified town. By the 1740s, it had grown to become one of the most extensive and expensive European forts in North America.

  • Captured: In 1745 & 1758 By The British

The Fortress of Louisbourg saw two sieges by the British. The first was in 1745 when the British captured it, but it was later returned for concessions elsewhere. The British captured it again in 1758 during the Seven Year's War (The French and Indian Wars in North America). The British destroyed the fort and kept their area thereafter.

At that time, Cape Breton Island was called Île Royale (French settlement on the island started in 1629). As France lost much of its possessions in peninsular Nova Scotia and Newfoundland in 1713 to Britain, the island became more strategic to guard its remaining possessions centered on the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

While the fort managed to fight off a British assault in 1757, it surrendered to the British in 1758. It was then used as a launching point for the British 1759 Siege of Quebec that led to the fall of New France, setting the future for Canada to be a British possession.

Related: Quebec's Old City Is UNESCO-Listed & Other Reasons To Visit

The Fortress Of Louisbourg Brings The Colonial French Settlement To Life

The Fortress of Louisbourg transports visitors back to French colonial life between 1713 and 1758. See the stunning coastlines with the reconstructed looming fortifications, kitchen gardens, and houses of the site, as well as the original ruins.

  • Largest: Historical Reconstruction In North America
  • Time Needed: Minimum 4 Hours

As a living history museum, one will see costumed animators, immersive exhibits, soldiers marching to fife & drum, townspeople sharing their stories, and more. Adding to the vibe are the fresh vegetables in the on-site gardens, a bakery with traditional stone ovens making 'soldier's bread', coastal trails, and more.

Jump back 300 years in time and see what life would have been like to have been a soldier, woman, or kid there. It was more than just a fort; it was also a fishing port and a center of commerce. For a moment, it was even first in rank in the French overseas empire.

It flourished for almost half a century until it was completely destroyed. None of its structures survived the ensuing centuries. It was abandoned after 1760 and was the only major colonial town not having a modern city built on top of it.

Related: Why The Chateau Frontenac Is Quebec's Most Romantic Hotel

Planning A Visit To The Fortress Of Louisbourg Today

Today the Fortress of Louisbourg is located on Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island and is a one-quarter partial reconstruction of the fort and some of the colonial town. The fortress and town were partially reconstructed in the 1960s and 1970s.

  • Peak Season: July to mid-September
  • Location: 40 Minutes From Sydney, 5.5 Hours from Halifax
  • Hours October 11 to May 21: 9.30 am to 4.00 pm (Weekdays)

It is a living history museum operated by Parks Canada. It is today the largest reconstruction in North America.

Peak Season Admission Fees:

  • Adult Day Pass: $18.75 CAD ($13.50 USD)
  • Youth: 17 & Under - Free

Low Season Admission Fees:

  • Adult Day Pass: $8.00 CAD ($6.00 USD)
  • Youth: 17 & Under - Free

The Fortress of Louisbourg is a great place to learn about the French and British colonization of North America. Learn how the southern colonies became the United States while the northern colonies went on to become the bilingual country of Canada.