Halifax, Provincial capital in Nova Scotia, Canada
Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia on the Canadian Atlantic coast, where a sheltered natural bay opens between the city and the opposite shores. The settlement extends from the inner basins to the open sea, with steep hills surrounding the center and residential neighborhoods distributed across multiple levels.
The British founded the city in the mid eighteenth century as a naval base to balance the French fortifications further north. During the first world war, this harbor became the departure point for convoys to Europe, until a massive explosion in nineteen seventeen destroyed parts of the northern city.
Street musicians and vendors gather along the historic waterfront, where fish markets stand beside small breweries and restaurants. Locals meet in public parks along the coast to watch the harbor basin and observe ship traffic.
Visitors move between neighborhoods using ferries, buses and on foot, with the waterfront area accessible from the water or via steep stairs and paths. The center is compact enough to cross in a few hours, while the outer areas require more time and transit options.
The fortress on the hill above downtown fires a cannon shot daily at noon, a tradition maintained since the nineteenth century. Visitors hear the blast across much of the city and watch locals prepare for the moment shortly before the signal.
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