I could write pages on Louisbourg, but let's leave it at this: A French fortress (and town), Louisbourg was around 1720 to protect the valuable cod fishery. In the two wars between Britain and France after it was built, it got better than it gave (vs. the New Englanders, mostly). After the War of the Austrian Succession (1740–48) it was returned to France even though it had been captured by Massachusetts troops. Captured again in the Seven Years' War (French and Indian War) in 1758, it was demolished rather than become a bargaining chip in the post-war negotiations.

It has been reconstructed using original plans, and currently occupies about 25% of the original town/fort. Parks Canada has done a great job.