As the largest urban area on Cape Breton and the island’s historical capital, Sydney, Nova Scotia is the perfect mix of metropolitan charm and down home hospitality.
History of Sydney, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Sydney was founded in 1785 and named in honour of Britain’s Home Secretary at the time, Thomas Townsend, 1st Viscount Sydney; a few years later, Sydney, Australia would also be named after him. Sydney's original settlers included former soldiers and Loyalists escaping the chaos following the American Revolution. The town was the English capital of Cape Breton Island from its founding until 1820, when the island colony and its rich coal fields became part of Nova Scotia. It was that coal that would transform Sydney from a colonial town in Cape Breton into a major industrial center, becoming a world leader in steel production. That industrial growth saw Sydney officially become a city in 1904, welcoming workers and their families from around the province and world.
Today, Sydney continues to welcome people from around the world as they come to visit the city and the beautiful island of Cape Breton.
Attractions in Sydney, Cape Breton Island
As with many Nova Scotian communities on the ocean, the heart of Sydney is its waterfront. On a warm, summer evening it’s a great place to go for a walk, stop to watch to a busker and to watch ships in the harbour. Along the way, be sure to get your photo taken beside the world’s largest fiddle, built in recognition of Cape Breton’s musical talent.