The city is located at the northern end of the Australian Capital Territory, 280 km south-west of Sydney, and 650 km north-east of Melbourne. The site of Canberra was selected for the location of the nation's capital in 1908 as a compromise between Sydney and Melbourne, the two largest cities. It is unusual among Australian cities, being an entirely purpose-built, planned city.
Following an international contest for the city's design, a design by the Chicago architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin was selected and construction commenced in 1913. The city's design was heavily influenced by the garden city movement and incorporates significant areas of natural vegetation that have earned Canberra the title "bush capital". Although the growth and development of Canberra were hindered by the World Wars and the Great Depression, it emerged as a thriving city after World War II.
Canberra, Australia's national capital, is a relaxed modern city famous for its national monuments and galleries, as well as its lake, park lands, open spaces and festivals. A pleasant place to walk and cycle around, Canberra also offers fabulous restaurants and nightlife, wineries and wildlife. The essence of Australia's culture, history and way of life is reflected in Canberra's national museums, galleries and institutions offer insight into Australia's journey from an indigenous continent to a modern country. |
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| Canberra: Australia's Capital |
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