What is the capital of South Australia?
Adelaide is the capital of South Australia. Founded in 1836, it was carefully planned by Colonel William Light, with a grid of streets surrounded by a ring of parklands.
South Australia was settled as a planned colony for free settlers rather than convicts. Light chose the site beside the River Torrens and laid out the city centre and North Adelaide with wide streets and squares, all enclosed by parklands that still exist.
Adelaide has about 1.4 million people, making it Australia's fifth-largest city. It is known for its festivals, including the Adelaide Fringe and the Adelaide Festival, and is close to famous wine regions such as the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.
The city of churches
Adelaide is often nicknamed the City of Churches, reflecting the colony's early promise of religious freedom. Its historic Central Market, beachside suburb of Glenelg and Adelaide Oval are popular attractions.
The city's compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot or by tram. A tram line runs from the city centre all the way to the beach at Glenelg in about half an hour.
Did You Know?
The city was named after Queen Adelaide, the German-born wife of King William IV.