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Before it became a major commercial port, Halifax served as a fishing spot for the Mi’kmaq, who referred to the Halifax area as “Jipugtug,” which meant “the biggest harbor.” French settlers arrived in the 17th century, establishing the colony of Acadia and disrupting the peaceful existence of the Mi’kmaq, followed by the British who in 1749 established a colony and numerous fortifications here. Tens of thousands of immigrants were brought across the Atlantic from Ireland and Scotland. Other immigrants came from Germany and the United States.

In 1912, Halifax’s history became inextricably linked with the Titanic disaster, as this is where the survivors and the dead were brought from the scene. Many of those who perished were laid to rest in three of the city’s cemeteries. Halifax endured further disaster in 1917 when, on December 6, two ships collided in the harbor, creating a catastrophic explosion that killed 1,800 and destroyed several buildings.

Today, Halifax is a thriving container and cruise ship port, with a rich culture of music, pubs and cafés, and year-round festivals. It’s especially popular as a cruise destination in fall when the trees in the surrounding countryside are sporting their dazzling colors. You’ll see signage in English and in French here; Canada is officially bilingual, but English is the main language spoken in Nova Scotia.

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