About Melbourne
Melbourne, Victoria’s coastal capital, is a city of stately 19th-century buildings and tree-lined boulevards. Yet at its centre is the strikingly modern Federation Square development, with plazas, bars, restaurants and cultural events along the Yarra River. In Southbank, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is site of Arts Centre Melbourne – a performing arts complex – and National Gallery of Victoria, displaying Australian and Indigenous art. Melbourne consists of 31 municipalities. It has a population of 4,441,918 as of 2014. Melbourne was founded by free settlers from the British Crown colony of Van Diemen's Land on 30 August 1835. Melbourne has a temperate oceanic climate. Melbourne is an international cultural centre, with cultural endeavours spanning major events and festivals, drama, musicals, comedy, music, art, architecture, literature, film and television. The climate, waterfront location and nightlife make it one of the most vibrant destinations in Australia. Melbourne has held the top position in the world's most liveable cities for 5 years.