Sydney

Founded in 1758, Sydney is the capital of the British colony in Cape Breton between 1784 and 1820. At the beginning of the 20th century, Sydney became the region’s industrial core due to its steel foundries and coal mines. Over the years these industries suffered a gradual decline and eventually disappeared, leaving the local economy to turn towards other sectors, including tourism, music, light industry and information technology, etc.

 

Located about 50km from Sydney is the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. This 18th century French fortress, captured by the English in 1758, has been completely restored and exhibits actual inhabited dwellings and period cultural interpretations.

The school community centre Étoile de l’Acadie is a key meeting place for Francophones from Sydney and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.