Red Bay Basque Whaling Station
Location: Labrador, Canada
Year of Inscription: 2013
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is a cultural site that was established by Basque whalers in the 16th century. The site includes the remains of several whaling ships, as well as the remains of the rendering ovens used to process the whale oil. The site is significant as it provides insight into the early North American whaling industry and the exchange of goods and ideas between the Basque country and North America.
Prominent Features: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is characterized by the following prominent features:
The remains of several whaling ships that were used by the Basque whalers.
The remains of the rendering ovens used to process the whale oil.
The remains of a cemetery where the whalers were buried.
History: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station was established by Basque whalers in the 16th century. The Basque country, located in what is now northern Spain and southwestern France, was known for its expertise in whaling and fishing. The Basque whalers traveled to North America to hunt the bowhead whale, which was abundant in the waters off Labrador. The whalers would process the whale oil on site, using large brick ovens to render the oil from the blubber.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is a fascinating site for children to explore. They can see the remains of the whaling ships and learn about the whaling industry and the Basque culture. The site also offers guided tours that are appropriate for families.
Fun Fact: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is the largest and best-preserved example of early European whaling in the world.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station.
How to reach it: Red Bay is located on the southern coast of Labrador and is accessible by car from Blanc-Sablon in Quebec, to the south west, with it's ferry links. There is also a small airport in nearby, an hour to the northwest, Mary's Harbour, with flights from several locations in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodations available in the nearby towns of Mary's Harbour and St. Lewis, including guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. There is also a campground located in Red Bay.
Next Stop: L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site
Year of Inscription: 2013
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is a cultural site that was established by Basque whalers in the 16th century. The site includes the remains of several whaling ships, as well as the remains of the rendering ovens used to process the whale oil. The site is significant as it provides insight into the early North American whaling industry and the exchange of goods and ideas between the Basque country and North America.
Prominent Features: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is characterized by the following prominent features:
The remains of several whaling ships that were used by the Basque whalers.
The remains of the rendering ovens used to process the whale oil.
The remains of a cemetery where the whalers were buried.
History: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station was established by Basque whalers in the 16th century. The Basque country, located in what is now northern Spain and southwestern France, was known for its expertise in whaling and fishing. The Basque whalers traveled to North America to hunt the bowhead whale, which was abundant in the waters off Labrador. The whalers would process the whale oil on site, using large brick ovens to render the oil from the blubber.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is a fascinating site for children to explore. They can see the remains of the whaling ships and learn about the whaling industry and the Basque culture. The site also offers guided tours that are appropriate for families.
Fun Fact: The Red Bay Basque Whaling Station is the largest and best-preserved example of early European whaling in the world.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station.
How to reach it: Red Bay is located on the southern coast of Labrador and is accessible by car from Blanc-Sablon in Quebec, to the south west, with it's ferry links. There is also a small airport in nearby, an hour to the northwest, Mary's Harbour, with flights from several locations in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodations available in the nearby towns of Mary's Harbour and St. Lewis, including guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. There is also a campground located in Red Bay.
Next Stop: L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site