Landscape of Grand Pré
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada
Year of Inscription: 2012
Criteria: (v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Landscape of Grand Pré is a cultural landscape that is home to the Grand Pré National Historic Site, which commemorates the Acadian people and their history in Nova Scotia. The site is known for its unique agricultural landscape, which was created by the Acadians in the 17th and 18th centuries and is characterized by the use of dykes and aboiteaux to control the flow of water.
Prominent Features: The Landscape of Grand Pré is characterized by its unique agricultural landscape, which was created by the Acadians in the 17th and 18th centuries. Some of the most notable features include:
Dykes: Earthen structures that were built to prevent flooding and create arable land.
Aboiteaux: Wooden sluice gates that were used to drain marshland and control water flow.
The Grand Pré National Historic Site: A museum and cultural center that commemorates the Acadian people and their history in Nova Scotia.
History: The Acadian people first settled in Grand Pré in the early 17th century, and quickly began to create a unique agricultural landscape characterized by the use of dykes and aboiteaux to control water flow. The Acadians were forcibly expelled from Grand Pré by the British in 1755, and many were scattered throughout the eastern seaboard of North America. The Grand Pré National Historic Site was established in 1917 to commemorate the Acadian people and their history.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Grand Pré National Historic Site offers a range of family-friendly activities, including guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can also explore the surrounding landscape, which includes walking trails and picnic areas.
Fun Fact: The dykes were built to protect the fertile marshland from flooding by the Bay of Fundy tides, and have been in use for over 300 years.
Entry Fees: Admission to the Grand Pré National Historic Site is $7.80 for adults, $6.55 for seniors, and free for children under 17.
How to reach it: There are several bus companies that offer service to Grand Pré, including Acadian Lines and Maritime Bus. The nearest major airport is Halifax Stanfield International Airport, which is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the Grand Pré area, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include the Old Orchard Inn & Spa, the Evangeline Motel, and the Blomidon Inn.
Next Stop: Joggins Fossil Cliffs 3 hours north by road