Quote:
Originally Posted by Dylan Leblanc
Looking at the citadel from above makes me wonder though, it sure is a waste of space, why hasn't anything ever been done with the grassy fields around it? Plant some trees or something!
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The citadel is built on a hill (drumlin really) for a reason. The flanks of the hill are difficult to climb and would slow down any attacking enemy. The sides of the hill were cleared of all vegetation and obstructions so that it would provide clear sight lines for the defenders to see the attackers and to fire upon them as they advanced upon the fortress.
You could replant the hillside with trees and shrubbery but this would interfere with the historical accuracy of the site. Since the citadel is owned by Parks Canada, I imagine they would be rather disinclined to allow this to happen.
In addition to maintaining historical accuracy, a second reason to keep the hillsides grassy would be to maintain the view from the top. Although the "Save the View" crowd in Halifax is pretty strident, there is no question that the view of the city and the harbour from the top is magnificent.
I am a strong proponent of trees, but in the historical and topographical context of the citadel, they shouldn't be allowed anywhere near the ramparts.