Adelaide

Adelaide is the capital city of the state of South Australia. It lies on the Adelaide Plain between the Gulf St Vincent to the west and the Mount Lofty Ranges to the east. Founded in 1836 as a planned colony for free settlers, the city was designed by Colonel William Light and named in honor of Queen Adelaide, wife of King William IV.

Designed as a garden city, Adelaide incorporates extensive parklands surrounding the central business district. The layout features a grid of streets bounded by parklands and the River Torrens, with the city center anchored by North Terrace and King William Street.

Greater Adelaide has a population of about 1.4 million. The economy emphasizes services, education, health care, defense, and tourism, with nearby wine regions such as the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale contributing to the regional economy.

Adelaide is known for cultural institutions and events. The city hosts major arts festivals, including the Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe. Key attractions include the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the Adelaide Botanic Garden, and the Central Market. The University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia, and Flinders University are among the city’s tertiary institutions.

Transportation and access: Adelaide is served by the Adelaide Airport; a rail network; a light rail tram line to Glenelg; and bus services. The city is renowned for its livability and its Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters.