What is the capital of Tasmania?
Hobart is the capital of Tasmania. Founded in 1804 on the River Derwent, it is Australia's second-oldest capital city and sits beneath the 1,271-metre kunanyi/Mount Wellington.
Hobart began as a British settlement at Sullivans Cove, partly to stop the French from claiming Van Diemen's Land, as Tasmania was then known. It grew as a port for whaling, shipbuilding and trade, and many sandstone warehouses from that era still stand at Salamanca Place.
Today Hobart has around 250,000 people. Its deep harbour makes it a base for Antarctic research ships, and it is the finish line of the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which starts every Boxing Day.
Culture and food
The city is known for the Museum of Old and New Art, called MONA, the Saturday Salamanca Market and festivals such as Dark Mofo. Fresh seafood, cool-climate wine and nearby wilderness make it a popular short break.
Hobart is also a gateway to the rest of the island. Bruny Island, the Tasman Peninsula with Port Arthur, and the Huon Valley are all within a short drive.
Did You Know?
Hobart is the starting point for many flights and voyages supporting Australia's Antarctic stations.