3. Sydney Was Originally a Penal Colony

Sydney’s origins date back to 1788 when it was established as a penal colony by the British. The first fleet of convicts, soldiers, and settlers arrived in Sydney Cove, marking the beginning of European settlement in Australia. This history is still visible in parts of the city, especially in the The Rocks area, where you can explore heritage sites and visit museums that tell the story of Australia’s early days.

• Fun Fact: The Sydney Convict Trail connects various historical sites related to the city’s convict history, including Sydney Cove and The Rocks.

4. The Sydney Opera House Was Built in Stages

The Sydney Opera House, one of the most famous buildings in the world, wasn’t completed all at once. The building’s unique design and intricate construction led to several delays and budget overruns, taking over 15 years to complete. Architect Jørn Utzon’s original concept was drastically altered during construction, but the final result has become a symbol of Australia’s cultural identity.

• Fun Fact: The Opera House is so iconic that it’s one of the most photographed buildings in the world, with its white, sail-like design being instantly recognizable.

5. Sydney is One of the Greenest Cities in the World

Sydney is not just about skyscrapers and beaches; it’s also a city that takes its green spaces seriously. About 40% of the city is dedicated to parklands and nature reserves, making it one of the greenest cities in the world. The famous Royal Botanic Garden is located right near the Sydney Opera House, offering stunning views of the harbor and lush landscapes to explore.

• Fun Fact: Sydney is also home to the Sydney Olympic Park, which was created for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The area now serves as a large recreational space with parks, wetlands, and walking tracks.

6. Sydney’s Skyline Has No Skyscraper Higher Than 305 Meters

Sydney’s city skyline is unique in that it doesn’t feature super-tall skyscrapers like some of the world’s other major cities. The tallest building in the city, Sydney Tower, stands at 305 meters (1,001 feet), and this is the limit imposed by local building regulations. The reason for this is to preserve the stunning views of the harbor, the Opera House, and the surrounding natural landscapes.

• Fun Fact: Sydney’s skyline is a mix of modern high-rises and heritage buildings, making it one of the most aesthetically pleasing skylines in the world.

7. Sydney Has a Hidden Tunnel System

Beneath Sydney’s busy streets, there exists a network of tunnels that were once used for various purposes, including transport and defense. The Sydney Underground system, built in the early 20th century, was originally intended for transportation, but many of these tunnels were later repurposed for utility and even storage. While not open to the public, parts of this secretive underground system still exist today.

• Fun Fact: Some of these tunnels are rumored to be haunted, with local legends telling stories of mysterious happenings beneath the city streets.

8. Sydney is Home to the World’s Oldest Continuously Operating Library

The State Library of New South Wales, founded in 1826, is the oldest continuously operating library in the world. The library houses over 6 million items, including rare books, maps, and manuscripts. Its Mitchell Wing is particularly famous for its historic architecture and the collection of Australian history documents.

• Fun Fact: The Ballardong Collection is a unique feature of the library, focusing on the history and culture of Indigenous Australians.

9. The City’s Public Transport System Includes Ferries

While many cities rely on buses and trains for public transportation, Sydney’s ferry system plays a vital role in moving people around the harbor. The ferry rides offer some of the best views of Sydney’s landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. You can hop on a ferry from Circular Quay and head to popular spots like Manly Beach, Taronga Zoo, and Balmain.

• Fun Fact: The Manly Ferry, in operation since 1855, offers one of the best scenic routes in Sydney, giving passengers stunning views of the harbor and the coastline.

10. Sydney Hosts the World’s Largest Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras

Sydney’s Mardi Gras Festival is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ celebrations in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The festival, which has been held annually since 1978, features a colorful parade, parties, and cultural events throughout the city. It celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.

• Fun Fact: The Mardi Gras Parade is famous for its extravagant floats, dazzling costumes, and lively music, making it one of Sydney’s most iconic events.