About Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada:
Newfoundland and Labrador is a province (yes, it’s just one province with two names) on the eastern coast of Canada, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. It consists of two main parts: the island of Newfoundland and the mainland region of Labrador, which are connected by ferry services across the Strait of Belle Isle. The province is the easternmost part of North America, with a population of about 540,000 people as of recent estimates.
The capital, St. John’s, is one of the oldest cities in North America, famous for its colorful row houses, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to natural wonders like Cape Spear—the continent’s easternmost point. The province has a strong maritime heritage, shaped by centuries of fishing, particularly cod, though the industry faced a major collapse in the 1990s due to overfishing.
The geography is rugged, with towering cliffs, fjords, and icebergs drifting past in the spring. Labrador’s vast wilderness includes the Torngat Mountains, while Newfoundland boasts places like Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rocks and stunning vistas. The climate’s harsh, with cold winters and cool summers, but the people are known for their warmth and distinct dialect, often called Newfoundland English.
Culturally, it’s a mix of Indigenous, Irish, English, and French influences—Mi’kmaq, Innu, and Inuit communities have deep roots here. The largest city, by far, is Saint John’s. Population was estimated at 110,000 in 2025.
Of interest to dog lovers: two distinct breeds were developed in this area: the so-called “Lesser St. John’s Dog” (which became the Labrador Retriever) and the “Greater St. John’s Dog” (which became the Newfoundland). Both breeds are large (Newfoundland males normally weigh 143–176 ponds, and females 121–143 pounds), placing them in the “Giant” weight range. They are built for rough weather (their webbed feet and water-repellent coat enabled them to work in any kind of conditions) and were invaluable assistants to fishermen including hauling in nets, carrying boat lines to shore, rescuing anyone who fell overboard, and doing whatever else was requested of them. They tend to make excellent pets, and are good with children. We call them “gentle giants”.
Catholic places of interest in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada:
Labrador City: Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Saint John’s: Basilica Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist