It might seem surprising that Sydney, established in 1788, is not Australia's capital. Yet the creation of Canberra in 1927 – intended to stem the intense rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne – has not affected the view of many Sydneysiders that their city remains the true capital of Australia, and certainly in many ways it feels like it. The city has a tangible sense of history in the old stone walls and well-worn steps in the backstreets around The Rocks, while the sandstone cliffs, rocks and caves amongst the bushlined harbour still contain Aboriginal rock carvings, evocative reminders of a more ancient past.
Sydney has all the vigour of a world-class city, and a population of nearly four million people; yet on the ground you'll find it still possesses a seductive, small-town, easy-going charm.
It's a setting that perhaps only Rio de Janeiro can rival: the water is what makes the city so special, and no introduction to Sydney would be complete without paying tribute to one of the world's great harbours. Port Jackson is a sunken valley which twists inland to meet the fresh water of the Parramatta River; in the process it washes into a hundred coves and bays, winds around rocky points, flows past the small harbour islands, slips under bridges and laps at the foot of the Opera House.
Capital city of the state of New South Wales, Sydney is Australia's oldest and largest. Founded in 1788 it has a population of almost four million and boasts one of the largest and most beautiful harbours in the world.
Two easily recognizable landmarks which often depict Australia rather than just Sydney are the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the world famous architectural wonder - the
Sydney Opera House.
With the settlement of numerous nationalities over the past couple of generations, the restaurants, shopping and nightlife are as varied and interesting as the many nations of the world. Sydney is a must for the beginning or the climax of an exciting Australian holiday.
email me
add as friend
Comments for derats about Sydney