6 Historical Sites To Explore In Canada

Though Canada is a relatively young country in an official sense (French and English settlers arrived during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries and laid down the roots for what would become modern-day Canada), indigenous peoples and other settlers were here long before that.

Canadian culture, including the preservation of its past through architecture, artifacts and natural relics, is showcased in many ways across the country. Historical sites representing the lives of indigenous peoples, European settlers, Vikings and even dinosaurs are open to the public and are excellent venues for discovering the country's rich past.

Europeans landed first in eastern Canada, namely Quebec, so naturally the oldest settlements are there. Migration west came later. Here are a few of the top historical sites, located across the country.

# L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland

Long before Christopher Columbus boarded a ship, Vikings sailed across the Atlantic and arrived in North America. Proof of this mission can be found at L'Anse aux Meadows, an authentic 11th century Norse settlement in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's most easterly province. These excavated remains are evidence of the first European presence in North America.

The site was excavated in 1960 when Norwegian explorer and writer Helge Ingstad and his wife, archaeologist Anne Stine Ingstad, searched the area. It was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1978.

# Ninstints, Haida Gwaii Islands, British Columbia

For the adventure minded who enjoy a dose of history and culture with their travel, Haida Gwaii, formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands, is a unique and compelling destination.

This archipelago on Canada’s west coast off of British Columbia is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site SGang Gwaay ("Ninstints" is the English name).

Ninstints is a village site that features the largest collection of Haida totem poles in their original locations, many celebrated as notable works of art. They are being allowed to weather and decay in the lush temperate rainforest climate.

# Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta

Long before Canada was on the radar of European explorers, dinosaurs made this country their home. Evidence of their ancient Canadian residency remains in Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta.

Two hours east of Calgary is one of Canada's most unique National Parks where dinosaur history meets a radical landscape of pinnacles and serpentine spires. Dinosaur Provincial Park is home to some of the most extensive dinosaur fossil fields in the world. Remnants of at least 35 species of dinosaur that lived here 75 million years ago when the area was a lush, sub-tropical forest can be toured by bus, on foot or through expeditions and other educational programs.

# Fortress of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia

The Fortress of Louisbourg is an unexpected treasure for visitors to Cape Breton, an island that is part of the province of Nova Scotia.

One of the busiest harbours in North America during the 18th century and one of France’s key economic and military centres in the New World, today the Fortress of Louisbourg is North America’s largest historical reconstruction.

Though the site was abandoned and fell to ruins in the 19th century, the Canadian government picked up the pieces in 1928, turning it into a national park. About a quarter of the town has been reconstructed, with the remaining parts still being probed for archeological goodies.

# Old Montreal, Quebec

Old Montreal is a part of downtown Montreal that has been preserved in much of its original state, with the oldest buildings dating back to the 1600s. This historic neighbourhood is a vibrant community and tourist attraction, with hotels, restaurants, shops, residences and commercial spaces.

Like Quebec City, Old Montreal is European in character. Cobblestone streets, a café culture and historic 17th- and 18th-century architecture all contribute to the quaint charm that stands out among cities in North America.

# Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia

Since the 1700s, the Port of Halifax has been a cornerstone of economic activity for the city, the region and the province as a whole. The Port’s strategic location made Halifax the perfect gateway into North America for settlers and shippers and military stronghold.

Visitors can explore a number of historical points of interest by visiting the port and its surrounding area.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, for example offers a fascinating glimpse into such events as the Halifax explosion and the Titanic's doomed voyage.