The Fortress of Louisbourg is the biggest historical reconstruction in Canada. As a national historic park, it the crown jewel of the Canadian Park Service. The fortress was build to protect the interests of France on the new world of massive seasonal fishing industry. The strategic position of Louisbourg gives France the idea of making more profits in the future as a centralized unit for fishing industry. The position of the Louisburg community is near the eastern tip of the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. This community was the capital of Ile Royale, a new colony. The Fortress of Louisbourg acted as the first line of defense against the British troops that siege the community during the 18th century. The siege was a struggle for the inhabitants of Louirboug because Great Britain has the objective of colonial supremacy within North America.
After a 6-week siege by the British troops in Louisbourg, the fortress was captured in 1745 because of the support provided by the British navy. Apparently, after 3 years of British governance, the fortress was returned to France in 1749 under a treaty. This is despite the protests shown by the American colonies.
The Fortress of Louisbourg fell again in 1758 for another 6-week siege. This is after almost a decade of increasing prosperity within the community. This siege was the biggest assembled assault force in the colonial history of Canada.
The fortifications of the fortress were ruined from 1760 to 1761. The imported cut stones from the original constructions of the fortress were re-used within the community of Louisbourg. These stones are still seen today along the eastern seaboard of Nova Scotia, Sydney, and Halifax.
In 1961, with the initiative from the government of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, the Fortress of Louisbourg was rebuilt wherein the ruins of stones and grass were transformed into interpretive and impressive historical sites. After the completion of the reconstruction, the Fortress of Louisbourg had become a unique window to the past and colonial history of Canada.
Today, the Fortress of Louisbourg stands as a great vacation spot and must-see attraction in Atlantic Canada. The grounds of the fortress are filled with bustling tourists and costumed animators. Demonstrations of live music, dance, lace making, forging, and more are just about everywhere in the place. Costumed people add to the authenticity of the events and activities, which are very entertaining.
Cannon firing is a much-awaited event by tourists at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Tourists can watch how the cannons are prepared for the event. Part of the preparation is a military procession from the main gates going to the cannon rows that guard the outer walls of the fortress. After cannon guns were cleaned and loaded, a drum roll preceded the loud boom, which signifies the end of the demonstration. The cannon firing demonstration only lasts for 20 minutes.
The Fortress of Louisbourg is laid out with more than 40 buildings that are authentic. It is surrounded by a wall with bastions and towers. The Bastion du Roi is the most luxurious building in the place. This building is occupied by the representative, who was the commandant and governor of the French King. The ordinary barracks of the soldiers were simply furnished. Other service facilities located at the fortress are stores, bakery, a smithy, museum, and many more. The entrance of the fortress is via the Porte Dauphine.
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