Red Bay National Historic Site
Newfoundland and Labrador
Red Bay National Historic Site, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a remarkable archaeological site that preserves one of the best-preserved Basque whaling stations from the 16th century. Established in the 1530s by Basque mariners, this site served as a major base for coastal hunting, processing, and rendering whale fat into oil, which was then shipped to Europe for lighting. The natural harbour, protected by Saddle Island, provided an ideal location for the whaling station, which operated primarily during summer months. The site spans 600 hectares and includes remains of rendering ovens, cooperages, wharves, temporary living quarters, and a cemetery on land, as well as underwater remains of vessels and whale bone deposits. Archaeological investigations began in the late 1970s, uncovering significant artifacts such as clay roofing tiles, whale bones, and the well-preserved hull of a Basque whaling ship, believed to be the San Juan. This shipwreck was carefully excavated and then reburied underwater to preserve its timbers. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1979 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, Red Bay offers visitors a unique glimpse into early European whaling traditions and maritime history in North America.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during the warmer summer months when the site is more accessible and the weather is favorable. It is recommended to check opening hours and consider booking guided tours or educational programs in advance to enrich the experience. While there is no need to purchase tickets far ahead, arriving early can help avoid crowds. Visitors may inquire about available discounts or group rates through the official Parks Canada website or visitor centre. Dress appropriately for outdoor exploration and be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain.
Interesting facts
- •Red Bay is one of the earliest and best-preserved Basque whaling stations in North America.
- •The underwater archaeological site includes the well-preserved hull of a 16th-century Basque whaling ship, believed to be the San Juan.
- •The site covers approximately 600 hectares, including both land and underwater areas.
- •The Basque whaling station operated for about 70 years before local whale populations were depleted.
- •The shipwreck was excavated and then reburied underwater to preserve its wooden structure, an unprecedented conservation effort.
- •Red Bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 due to its outstanding cultural heritage.
History
Red Bay was established by Basque mariners in the 1530s as a whaling station and operated for approximately 70 years until around 1625, when the local whale population was depleted.
The site was rediscovered through archaeological surveys in the late 1970s, which revealed extensive on-land and underwater remains.
Recognizing its historical significance, Canada designated Red Bay as a National Historic Site in 1979.
Further international recognition came in 2013 when it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional testimony to early European whaling practices.
Place Guide
Rendering Ovens16th century
These ovens were used by Basque whalers to render whale blubber into oil, a valuable commodity for lighting in Europe. The remains provide insight into the industrial processes of 16th-century whaling.
Basque Whaling Shipwreck (Site 24M)16th century
An underwater archaeological site featuring the well-preserved hull of a Basque whaling ship, likely the San Juan, discovered in 1978. The shipwreck reveals details about ship construction and the whaling industry of the era.
Clay Roofing Tiles16th century
Large quantities of red clay roofing tiles found at the site are remnants of the buildings constructed by Basque whalers, indicating the semi-permanent nature of their settlement.
Temporary Living Quarters and Cemetery16th century
Archaeological remains of the Basque whalers' living spaces and a cemetery provide personal and cultural context to the site, illustrating the human aspect of this historic industry.
Contact
Phone: (709) 920-2142
