Adelaide

Kaurnaland

Beechey, William - Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen - NPG 1533

Adelaide supplement to the Illustrated Sydney News

North Terrace, 1841

Karte Adelaide MKL1888

Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia and the fifth-most populous city of Australia. In June 2020, Adelaide had an estimated resident population of 1.3 million. Adelaide is situated on the Adelaide Plains north of the Fleurieu Peninsula, between the Gulf St Vincent in the west and the Mount Lofty Ranges in the east. Its metropolitan area extends 20 km from the coast to the foothills, and 90 km from Gawler at its northern extent to Sellicks Beach in the south.

History

Founded in 1836 by Colonel William Light, Adelaide was named in honour of Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, queen consort to King William IV. The city was designed by Light with a grid layout, interspaced by wide boulevards and large public squares, and entirely surrounded by parklands. This design, now known as the Light's Vision, has meant that the initial layout of Adelaide has largely been retained.

Economy

Adelaide's economy is primarily based on manufacturing, technology, and research and development. The city has been involved in various industries including automotive (until the closure of the Holden plant in 2017), defence technology, and electronics. It is also a hub for wine production and exports, particularly from the nearby Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale regions.

Culture

Adelaide is known for its festivals and sporting events, including the Adelaide Festival, the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and the Tour Down Under. The city is also home to a number of museums and galleries, such as the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum. Adelaide's music and arts scene has produced several internationally known artists and bands.

Education

The city is a centre for education and research, hosting three public universities: the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia, and Flinders University. These institutions are complemented by a range of other tertiary education facilities, making Adelaide a vibrant student city.

Geography

Adelaide is located on a plain between the Gulf St Vincent and the Mount Lofty Ranges. The city itself has a number of parks and gardens that are interspersed throughout the city, with the Adelaide Park Lands surrounding the city centre. The River Torrens runs through the city from the Adelaide Hills to the sea.

Demographics

Adelaide is a multicultural city, with a significant immigrant population. The city's residents come from a wide variety of cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, contributing to Adelaide's diverse food, culture, and community events.

Transport

The city has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains, managed by the Adelaide Metro. Adelaide is also served by the Adelaide Airport, which provides domestic and international flights.

Governance

Adelaide is governed at the local level by the City of Adelaide and several other municipal councils. The city is represented at the state level by the South Australian Government and at the federal level by the Australian Government.

Climate

Adelaide has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. This climate supports the wine and agriculture industries surrounding the city.

See Also

• History of Adelaide
• Economy of South Australia
• Culture of Adelaide
• Education in Australia

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