Castine, Maine's present serenity belies its turbulent past. Founded in 1613 as a French trading colony, the village later evolved into the first permanent settlement in New England. The Dutch, French, English and Americans all fought for a foothold on this lush peninsula. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that Castine was able to settle down and prosper. Born of a deep water harbor with a shipbuilding past and East India trade, it became the second wealthiest port in America. The legacy of those days lies in the gracious architecture you’ll see throughout Castine today. Just take the scenic “Walking Tour of Castine,” a self guided brochure that outlines more than 50 historical sites, museums, parks and distinguished homes.