Profile
Blog
Photos
Videos
Woke up bright and early (6AM!!). Got myself organized, packed, cleaned up and took a walk up to the Public Gardens (thanks for the tip, Glenn!). I got there just as they were opening the big gates and me my few fellow early risers (yes, I was the only one under the age of 65) strolled in and were able to enjoy this magical beauty by ourselves. It was such a quiet and peaceful way to start the day. There was even a small café so I bought a coffee and muffin, parked myself on a bench in front of a water fountain surrounded in beauty and had breakfast.
From there I decided to go to the Citadel - it was only a block away. I went because my guidebook raved about the view of the city. I didn't really read any further than that and had actually assumed that it was a church. From the sidewalk you couldn't really see anything atop the big grassy hill and as I made my way to the top I was starting to doubt there'd be little more than a look out tower.
But on I climbed through overcast, slightly leaky skies and eventually met up with an enormous storm fort. Costumed guards stood stoically at the gate wearing kilts and bear skin hats holding long rifle like guns. Bravely I passed by them, went through the gates and entered a vast space encapsulated by heavy tall stone walls. There were other 'staff' costumed and marching, doing drills and shouting commands. Maybe it was the fact that I was one of the first to arrive, maybe it was the moody sky but I actually felt the 1800s pass through me.
I was so intrigued that I even took a guided tour. I usually avoid them - I'm not one for being 'guided' and history tends to get all muffled in my head (most likely because it's full of other really smart things). But once I realized this wasn't a church or a look out I was really curious to find out what it was. So I took a tour and learned new things and if you would like to know the Citadel is all about - you can read their website! Or better yet - go visit!
http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ns/halifax/natcul.aspx
- comments
Glenn I love Citadel Hill, and the view is well worth going up even if the history doesn't do it for you. I have had a coffee and muffin at that very same cafe. God, this makes me miss Halifax.