Halifax Citadel : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 16 Jun, 2023
- |
Welcome to the historic and beautiful Halifax Citadel, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia! This imposing fortress, on the south-western corner of the Halifax Harbour has been standing since 1749, and is recognized as one of the finest examples of British Fortress architecture. With its rich and fascinating history, the Halifax Citadel is a popular tourist attraction for visitors from both near and far. In this blog, you will find some interesting facts and information about the Citadel to help you plan your trip. I’ll also share some tips for making the most of your visit and exploring the Citadel and its vibrant surroundings. So, keep reading for a great introduction to Halifax Citadel!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Halifax Citadel
1. The original Citadel was a smaller French fortification called the ‘Little Citadel’, which was constructed around 1749 in order to protect Halifax’s port from a potential British attack.
2. The walls surrounding the Citadel are made up of granite, one of the strongest stones found in the region.
3. A 99-gun salute was given in 1911 to honor the coronation of King George V.
4. There is a bombproof casemate within the Halifax Citadel which served as an armory and magazine during World War II.
5. In the year 2006, the Citadel was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with 11 other Canadian forts.
6. The kilt is an integral part of the modern day Citadel Garrison guard attire, despite the fact that it wasn’t associated with Scottish troops until the Victorian era.
7. During the age of exploration and colonization, the fort was called ‘The Fortress of Acadia’.
8. The Citadel has been the cornerstone of the Nova Scotian government and stands as a reminder of the British power that was once entrenched on the harbour.
9. On the first day of every year, a 21-gun salute is done from the Citadel’s casement as part of the New Year celebrations.
10. The Citadel is also known for its six cannons which fire off each day at noon, which was designed to help ship captains adjust their chronometers.
History & Information About Halifax Citadel
The Halifax Citadel is a star-shaped fortification in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which is one of the oldest and most iconic British fortifications in North America. Built in 1749, the Citadel served as a military fort for the next 200 years. After the city of Halifax was founded by the British in 1749, the British built the Citadel to protect the city and harbour. The hill that the Citadel stands upon has been used as a military fortification since the earliest days of Halifax’s settlement and the Citadel would become the fourth, and final, fort to be constructed on the hill.
The iconic star-shaped fortress was designed by the military engineer Colonel Edward Cornwallis and was modeled after the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. The Citadel was built to protect the city from uninvited guests, such as privateers, pirates, and American revolutionaries. It was also intended to serve as a base of operations in any future imperial and naval conflict between British and French forces in North America.
Today, Fort George, the core of the Halifax Citadel, is a National Historic Site and is a major tourism attraction in Halifax. Visitors to the Citadel can explore the history of the site with guided tours, exhibits, and interactive experiences. It is open year-round and offers various activities, with events featuring reenactments, music, and fireworks.
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Travel Guide For Visiting Halifax Citadel
Halifax Citadel is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Halifax Citadel, which is located atop a hill, is the site of the former British fortifications that were used to defend the city from the attacks of its many enemies. The Citadel is now open to the public and offers visitors a look into the history of the Naval Station in Halifax, and its link to the heritage in Nova Scotia. Here’s a guide to visiting the Halifax Citadel.
Getting There:
The most convenient way to get to Halifax Citadel is by public transit, with the ferry from Barrington Street and the bus from Gottingen Street. There is also free parking available at the entrance to the Citadel and a paid underground parking lot nearby.
Tours and Programs:
There are multiple tours and programs offered at the Halifax Citadel. Visitors can explore the Old Town on a walking tour, take a guided tour of the fortifications and learn about the military history of the site, or even take a guided tour of the underground tunnels used by the troops in World War I.
Hours:
The Citadel is open daily from 9am-5pm in the summer and 9:30am – 4pm in the winter. There are seasonal closures for holidays and special events.
Cost:
Admission to the Halifax Citadel is free for children under 6 and seniors over 65. General admission for adults is $11.50 CAD. Prices may also vary depending on the type of tour or program you are booking.
What to Bring:
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing to explore the Citadel. It is also recommended to bring water and sunscreen on hot days and a warm jacket for cooler days. You may also want to bring a camera to take photos of the different attractions at the Citadel.
Things to Do:
There are a variety of things to do at the Halifax Citadel. Visitors can explore the fortifications, take a tour of the underground tunnels, or watch the firing of the noon gun. You can also learn about the history of the fortress through interactive displays and watch performances of artillery drills, music and drama.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halifax Citadel
Q: When was the Halifax Citadel constructed?
A: The Halifax Citadel was constructed in 1856 by the British Army as a fortification to defend the city and strategic harbour of Halifax.
Q: What type of activities are held at the Halifax Citadel?
A: The Halifax Citadel hosts a range of events throughout the year, including guided tours, a ceremonial guard, a living history program, and a musketry presentation.
Q: What are the opening times of the Halifax Citadel?
A: The Halifax Citadel is open daily from 09:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Q: Is there an admission fee to enter the Halifax Citadel?
A: Adult admission to the Halifax Citadel is $12.90 CAD and $6.90 CAD for youth.
Q: Are there any special deals or discounts available for visiting the Halifax Citadel?
A: Yes, visitors who are members of the Canadian military or a recognized veterans’ group, seniors over the age of 65 and children under the age of 6 are all admitted free of charge.