Our History

Nova Scotia, known as Mi’kma’ki (Mee-gmah-gi), is located within the traditional, ancestral lands of the Mi’kmaq.

The historic site of Fort Anne appears through the walkway of a stone tunnel

Discover Our History

The Mi’kmaq have been stewards of these lands for millennia. Nova Scotia is also home to rich and diverse cultures steeped in fascinating history. We take great pride in preserving and celebrating our diverse heritage. The traditions of Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian, Acadian, Gaelic, and many other communities live strong in our everyday. Throughout your travels in Nova Scotia, learn and experience the languages, art, music, cuisine, stories and history that shape our vibrant culture.

Interested in researching your connection to Nova Scotia? Please visit the Nova Scotia Archives website to review the genealogy services they provide.

Cultural History

Mi’kmaw Culture

This rugged, sea-swept peninsula has been home to the Mi’kmaq (Mee-gmah) people for over 11,000 years. Their culture, language, stories, music, and art emerges from their profound connection to this natural environment.

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musicians performing on stage at Acadian Day celebration

Acadian Culture

The spirit of l’Acadie runs deep in Nova Scotia. Vivid reminders of the intrepid French settlers, who first arrived in Nova Scotia in the seventeenth century, can be found throughout the province.

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A young girl looking at a cultural display

African Nova Scotian

People of African descent have made Nova Scotia their home for more then 400 years. Their history includes the stories of many diverse groups – Loyalists, Maroons, Caribbeans, Refugees and others – sewn together through a common African ancestry.

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Gaelic Culture

By at least the early 1770s immigrants from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland came by the tens of thousands and made Nova Scotia their home. These settlers called themselves Gàidheil (Gaels), i.e. ones whose language and cultural expression is Gaelic.

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Living History Museums

Looking for a fun-filled learning adventure for the whole family? Check out Nova Scotia’s 10 Living History Museums to step back in time and interact with costumed interpreters. Don’t forget that Nova Scotia is also home to over 225 museums and historic sites which means your vacation options are endless.

Living History Museums View all Museums

A lady in a blue shirt and red hat with blond flowy hair, stands in front of the Lunenburg waterfront which is full of colourful buildings and boats in the harbour — Lunenburg

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Nova Scotia boasts six UNESCO designated sites plus two UNESCO supported sites, many so close together that you can explore them all within a few days. At each of our UNESCO sites you’ll discover engaging stories of our past that continue to shape our present and future.

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Nova Scotia's Titanic Connection — Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

Get Inspired With Itineraries

To get to where you’re going, you need to know where you came from. We take great pride in preserving the things that make our varied historic cultures unique and fascinating. The traditions of our Mi’kmaq, Acadian, African Nova Scotian, and Celtic and Gaelic influences live strong in our everyday.

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