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Grand-Pré National Historic Site: A Window into Acadian History

Discover the heart of Acadian history at Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commemorating Acadian settlement and resilience in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley.

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Grand-Pré National Historic Site commemorates the area as the heart of Acadian settlement from 1682 to 1755 and the tragic Deportation of the Acadians. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a poignant glimpse into Acadian culture through exhibits, a memorial church, and serene gardens. For Acadians worldwide, it remains a powerful symbol of their ancestral homeland.

A brief summary to Grand-Pré National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Start your visit at the Interpretive Centre to view the multimedia presentation for historical context.
  • Explore the serene gardens surrounding the Memorial Church, especially picturesque in the fall.
  • Consider visiting local wineries like Domaine de Grand Pré or Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards after your visit.
  • Check the Parks Canada website for special events and interpretation programs during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Route 101, take Exit 10 towards Wolfville. Follow Route 1 in a westerly direction for one kilometer, then turn right (head north) for another kilometer to 2205 Grand-Pré Road. Parking is available on site in the lot in front of the Visitor Information Centre. Parking is free for visitors.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't direct public transport to the site, you can take a bus to Wolfville and then a taxi to Grand-Pré National Historic Site. Taxi from Wolfville to Grand-Pré is approximately 10km and costs around $20 - $30.

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Discover more about Grand-Pré National Historic Site

Grand-Pré National Historic Site, located in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia, is a powerful monument to Acadian history and culture. From 1682 to 1755, Grand-Pré was the center of Acadian life in the region, characterized by innovative farming techniques on the tidal marshlands of the Minas Basin. The Acadians developed a unique system of dykes and aboiteaux (sluices) to reclaim fertile land from the sea, creating a thriving agricultural community. In 1755, this peaceful existence was shattered when the British government began the Deportation of the Acadians, also known as *Le Grand Dérangement*. Over six thousand Acadians were forcibly removed from their lands, scattering families and communities across the globe. Grand-Pré served as one of the primary sites of this tragic event. Today, the National Historic Site commemorates this history through various features. The Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre offers multimedia presentations and exhibits detailing Acadian life and the Deportation. The Memorial Church, built in 1922, stands as a symbol of remembrance and the perseverance of the Acadian people. Visitors can also explore the beautiful Victorian gardens, stroll along the Harvest Moon Trail, and reflect at the Evangeline statue, inspired by Longfellow's famous poem. The site also offers oTENTik accommodations for overnight stays. Grand-Pré is more than just a historical site; it's a living testament to Acadian resilience and a place of pilgrimage for Acadians around the world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the enduring power of community.

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