In 1843 work started on building Fort Victoria. The fort had only one bastion in the southwestern corner and that is where the name for this space is coming from. The first brick structures were completed in the early 1860s including the Reid Block. It has been altered substantially, but still stands and now houses a restaurant and stores along Wharf Street.
In the mid-1960s Victoria importance of heritage buildings was not recognized but Roderick Clack was still able to start creating the modern Bastion Square.
First, the streets were closed to traffic and the main pedestrian portion of Bastion Square was created.
Today this lively area, which looks out on the Inner Harbour, is full of historic charm, restaurants and pubs. It is quite a welcoming destination to discover the unique character of Victoria. In the summer, its many outdoor patios and seasonal artisan and farmer’s market make it an ideal spot to visit! Photos bellow are from 2016 visit, as you can see square is still in excelent shape.