by Rebecca Saint

Created on: May 14, 2009   Last Updated: May 15, 2009

Often stated as one of the most beautiful cities in Nova Scotia, this harbour side city is home to over 350,000 people of all shapes, sizes and shades. These are some of the friendliest people you will ever have the pleasure to spend your time with, and they are more than happy to show anyone visiting the city the scores of beautiful sights around the city.


Halifax is situated on the south-side of the world's second largest natural harbour on Canada's Eastern seaboard. Founded in 1749, Halifax was the first permanent British settlement in Canada and was founded by General Edward Cornwallis. You'd hardly believe it, 260 years later, but the initial population of Halifax was only 2500 British army and navy soldiers.

With its rich history and value for it, a stroll through Halifax is much like a hands on history lesson. Many buildings that were erected during Halifax's birthing still stand, neighbouring sky-rises and modern-day architecture building. If you ask anyone who has been to Halifax before what you should do when you visit there, they will tell you to take a long walk downtown and take in the sights. Bring good sneakers though, be prepared for a great workout as Halifax is full of steep inclines.

Citadel Hill

Perhaps the most commonly known sight in Halifax is Citadel Hill. Situated upon a high perch in the heart of the city, standing a top the Citadel offers the visitor spectacular views of the surrounding areas and the unforgettable sights of the harbour, McNab's and George's Islands, the Dockyard, and even the surrounding areas of Dartmouth, Bedford and a bit of Sackville. Every day since its inception in 1749, bagpipes have played at midday before and after the noon cannon fires. This is a grand and proud tradition of Halifax, and the cannon is as loud as any would expect - the bang will definitely give you a start but it is an experience like none other. The Citadel fortress at the hilltop has been well maintained and looks as though it did in photos taken circa 1856.

A tour of the grounds is offered for all to see the beautifully manicured National Park. A guided tour of the fortress is also available where visitors will experience the changing of the guard. Tours are available from May to October. Visiting Citadel Hill is much like taking a step back in time. Surrounded by costumed men and women who are truly involved in playing the roles of 1700's British militants, visitors are given the opportunity to see what life was like and taste the foods

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