Twinned with Milan since 21 July 2004
Mayor: Sally Capp
Population: 4.968.000 inhabitants
Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, after Sydney.
Located in the innermost part of Port Phillip Bay, it represents the main access point for the entire State of Victoria, of which it is the capital.
Its territory develops around the original settlement, called Greater Melbourne, which still constitutes the financial, judicial, administrative and ecclesiastical nucleus today.
The city hosts the headquarters of the State Government and the headquarters of large national and international companies, important institutions and governmental and non-governmental agencies; it is a thriving commercial center at the forefront of progress, with monumental and impressive public buildings.
Melbourne excels in terms of healthcare system and infrastructure.
Iconic are its tramways and its integrated public transport system, which constitutes a model for other cities.
It is home to seven public universities, including the University of Melbourne which is Australia's second oldest university.
Refined and creative, Melbourne stands out for its artistic scene thanks to the organization and promotion of numerous cultural activities, festivals and events, as well as for the support provided to artists who thus make it easier to live and perform in the city.
More than a quarter of its central core is made up of parks and gardens; in recent decades the city has promoted the creation of green areas that can also be used in more external areas.
