Hobart Tasmania
Tasmania, Island of Inspiration
Hobart is the state capital and most populous city of the Australian island state of Tasmania. Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, it is Australia's second oldest and eleventh largest city, with a metropolitan population of approximately 202,000. The city is the financial and administrative heart of Tasmania, and also serves as the home port for both Australian and French Antarctic operations.
The Capital Of Tasmania
The capital city of Tasmania, it is Australia's second oldest city. It has been described as an old world city in which the past and present have been blended together. Settled in 1804, when Colonel David Collins moved the settlement from Risdon Cove to Sullivan's Cove. Named Hobart Town after Lord Hobart who was Secretary of State for the colonies.
The word "Town" was dropped by an Act of Parliament in 1881 when it became a city. There were moves to convert the name to Hobarton but this was short lived. Hobart's Theatre Royal is the oldest theatre in Australia, building commenced in 1834 and it was finished in 1837.
Did You Know?
The Black Velvet Band tells about the transportation of prisoners from Belfast to Port Arthur in Van-Diemen's Land - meaning of course Tasmania. Typically up-beat and optimistic with just that little twist of sadness as most of these traditional Irish tunes have. Please read the verses as they tell you a little about the transportation of convicts.
Royal Gardens
Established in 1818 Australia's second oldest botanic garden has over 6000 exotic and native species. The largest public collection of conifers in the southern hemisphere feature throughout the Gardens. The Conservatory has spectacular displays and plants of Asian origin are in the Japanese Garden. There is a restaurant and kiosk open 7 days a week.
Wedding ceremonies are often held in the grounds.
Salamanca Market
Salamanca Market was fun to visit. There are restaurants and shops including craft stores. The colonial sandstone buildings are converted warehouses. The popular Salamanca Market is held each Saturday morning.
Next Destination, Melbourne
