Grand Pré Landscape

Grand Pré Landscape

The Grand Pré Landscape refers to the cultural landscape composed of the Grand Pré marshlands and archaeological sites located in the southern part of the Minas Basin, Nova Scotia, Canada. It bears witness to the development of agricultural land in the area. On June 30, 2012, the Grand Pré Landscape was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Since the 17th century, the Acadians have used drainage ditches and a wooden sluice system known as the “Aoiteau” in their farmland. Later, the Planters and today’s residents further developed and maintained these systems. This heritage site also features the highest tidal range in the world, averaging 11.6 meters, and serves as a commemorative place for the lifestyle of the Acadians and their history of deportation starting in 1755.

The site covers over 1,300 hectares, including a vast lowland farmland and the archaeological remains of the town of Grand Pré. The town was originally established by the Acadians and Hortonville, and later built upon by British successors. The landscape here is one of the best examples of early European settlers adapting to the environment along the Atlantic coast of North America and stands as a symbolic site commemorating the Acadian deportation — historically known as the Grand Dérangement.

Landscape of Grand Pré

Reason to visit: The region with the highest tidal range in the world

Continent where the attraction is located: North America

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Canada

Province/State where the attraction is located: Nova Scotia