Manchester

Manchester is a city and metropolitan borough in the northwest of England. It is the principal settlement of Greater Manchester and lies on the River Irwell, in the historic county of Lancashire. The city developed rapidly in the 18th and 19th centuries as a major center of the textile industry, with canals and railways connecting it to other markets, making it a focal point of the Industrial Revolution. Its urban area expanded to accommodate a growing and diverse population, including Irish, European, and Asian communities, which contributed to its cultural mix.

Today Manchester has a broad and diversified economy centered on services, education, digital and creative industries, and advanced manufacturing. It is home to two large universities, the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as the University of Salford within the metropolitan area. The city hosts a wide range of cultural institutions, music venues, theatres and museums, and is known for its football clubs Manchester United and Manchester City.

Manchester has a well-developed transport network, including Manchester Airport, railway stations at Piccadilly and Victoria, and the Metrolink light rail system. The Greater Manchester urban area is connected by major motorways, including the M60 orbital. The city contains notable landmarks such as the Town Hall, the Beetham Tower, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Manchester maintains international links through education, trade, and cultural exchange, and has sister-city relationships with several cities around the world.