Canberra is located in the Australian Capital Territory and serves as the capital of Australia. It is a uniquely planned city created to function as the centre of the nation’s government, politics, and administration. Despite being Australia’s capital, Canberra is often underrated as a tourist destination. People were surprised and confused when they heard that I was planning a visit there. However, this city has a lot to offer, including a rich cultural heritage, impressive architecture, and beautiful parks, gardens and tree lined streets.

History of Canberra

January 1st, 1901, was Federation Day when the colonies of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania officially became the new Commonwealth of Australia. Both before and after the Federation, there was much public bickering about where the capital of Australia should be. Under the Constitution, Parliament had to choose a site at least one hundred miles (160km) from Sydney. Parliament, therefore, sat in Melbourne until a new parliament house was built in the new capital.

More than sixty locations were suggested as potential sites for the capital city of Australia. After much disagreement and conflict, the location of Canberra was ultimately chosen in October 1908. As a result, the government organised an international competition to design the capital, with entrants being informed that it would be the official and social hub of Australia. American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin consequently won the competition with a design that was in harmony with the site’s topography. The city was situated between three hills and an ornamental lake connected by a sequence of basins. The city was officially named Canberra in 1913, and construction began shortly after that.

Growth

Canberra witnessed significant growth during World War I, as it served as the administrative centre for the Australian military. In the following decades, from the 1920s to the 1930s, the city continued to expand as the seat of government and became the focal point of national politics and administration. The mid-20th century saw rapid growth and modernisation, with Canberra emerging as a hub for innovation, research, and cultural, educational, and scientific institutions. Subsequently, today, Canberra is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage, a growing arts scene, iconic landmarks, beautiful parks and gardens, and a rich history.

The Best Photography Spots in Canberra

Canberra is a beautiful city with many stunning photography spots offering breathtaking views and landscapes. Some of the best photography spots in Canberra include:

Parliament House

The Australian Federal Parliament is housed in an iconic building that forms the centrepiece of the parliamentary triangle. The building’s rooftop is covered in grass and offers stunning views of the city. Designed by architect John Smith Murdoch, it was officially opened in 1988, replacing the previous Parliament House.

Sitting atop Capital Hill and surrounded by sweeping lawns and gardens, Parliament House is a grand and modern building. Made of glass, steel, and concrete, its large central dome is visible across the city. Visitors are welcome to explore the public spaces inside, including the Great Hall, Members Hall, and the House of Representatives and Senate chambers. Guided tours are also available, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about the building’s history and the workings of the Australian Government.

Parliament House is also home to many important artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other decorative objects, reflecting Australia’s cultural heritage. Notable artworks on display include artist Frank Oakeshott’s murals and artist John Hancock’s stained-glass windows.

Photo Tip: The reflecting pool in front of the building is best at night or blue hour.

Lake Burley Griffin

The artificial lake in the heart of Canberra was named after Walter Burley Griffin, the American architect who designed the city. The lake was created as a central element of Griffin’s design for the city, and for this reason, it remains a defining feature of the Canberra landscape. In addition, the lake offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, picnicking, and cycling. It is also a popular location for events and festivals throughout the year.

One of the most iconic features of Lake Burley Griffin is the Captain Cook Memorial Jet. This water jet in the lake’s centre shoots up to 147 meters into the air. The jet is particularly spectacular when viewed at night when coloured lights illuminate it. In addition to its recreational activities, Lake Burley Griffin is also an important symbol of Canberra and its history. Additionally, important cultural institutions like the National Museum of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Parliament House surround the lake, making it a vital part of the city’s cultural and political landscape.

During the Balloon Festival in March each year, the lake on the opposite side of the National Museum is a fabulous location to photograph the balloons taking off and floating across the lake.

Photo Tip: foggy mornings on Lake Burley Griffin make a great photo.

National Gallery of Australia (NGA)

The National Gallery of Australia is a modern building designed by architect James Mather. It opened in 1982 and is the largest art museum in Australia. Within its walls is a collection of over 166,000 works of art from Australia, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

The collections include many art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, decorative arts, and works on paper. Some of the museum’s most notable holdings include works by prominent Australian artists such as Tom Roberts, Grace Cossington Smith, and Sidney Nolan. Also on display is Jackson Pollocks ‘Blue Poles’. In addition, significant works by international artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet are also on display.

In addition to its collection, the National Gallery of Australia offers a range of educational programs. These include guided tours, workshops, and events, making it a valuable resource for schools and educational institutions. A visit to the sculpture garden is not to be missed. The building features spacious galleries, a library, a café, and a rooftop restaurant. It’s not hard to see why the NGA is a popular destination for art lovers and visitors of all ages.

Photo Tip: visit Fujiko’ Nakaya’s Foggy Wake In The Desert ecosphere, which operates from 12.30 – 2 pm daily

Mount Ainslie

Mount Ainslie’s summit is a well-known attraction for both visitors and residents, providing stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. As a part of the Canberra Nature Park, it’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including eucalyptus trees, native shrubs, and various bird species. The location offers walking paths, picnic areas, and observation points, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, birdwatch, or enjoy a leisurely picnic.

Mount Ainslie offers visitors two options to reach its summit – a scenic drive or a hike through the mountain’s natural bushland. The trails leading to the top provide a picturesque view of Canberra and its surrounding landscapes, including Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Australian Alps. The summit of Mount Ainslie offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Canberra.

Australian War Memorial (AWM)

The memorial’s stunning architecture and location on a hill overlooking the city make it a popular spot for photographers. The Australian War Memorial was established to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the members of the Australian armed forces and to honour the sacrifices of all Australians who have served in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations throughout the country’s history.

The building, designed by the architect John Castles and completed in 1941, is considered one of the most significant war memorials in the world. It features a shrine room where visitors can pay their respects to the fallen. The museum also houses a collection of artefacts, documents, and artwork related to Australia’s military history.

The museum’s exhibitions showcase the Australian military’s experiences and the war’s impact on the country and its people. Visitors can also view weapons, uniforms, medals, personal letters, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations, which bring the history of the Australian military to life. In addition to its exhibitions, the AWM also offers a range of educational programs, guided tours, workshops, and events, which provide a valuable resource for schools and educational institutions.

Photo Tip: The reflecting pool on a still day and the wall of poppies make great images.

Old Parliament House

This historic building was the seat of the federal Government from 1927 to 1988 and was designed by the architect John Smith Murdoch. It was officially opened on May 9, 1927, by the Duke of York (later King George VI). The building was initially intended to be a temporary structure. However, it has served as the federal government’s home for over 60 years. The Old Parliament House was the site of many important political and social events. These included opening the first federal parliament and swearing-in of Australia’s first prime minister, Edmund Barton.

The Old Parliament House was replaced by the New Parliament House in 1988. However, it has been preserved and renovated as a museum known as the Museum of Australian Democracy. The museum showcases the Old Parliament House’s history and significance, offering visitors a unique insight into Australia’s political and social history. Visitors can explore the historic building and its exhibitions, including the House of Representatives and Senate chambers, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the King’s Hall.

The museum also offers a range of educational programs and activities, including guided tours, interactive exhibitions, and special events. Its beautiful gardens and architecture make it a popular spot for photography.

National Museum of Australia

Located in the heart of Canberra, the building is considered an iconic piece of architecture. Designed by the architect firm Ashton Raggatt McDougall (ARM), it was completed in 2001. It has received several awards and accolades for its design. The Australian landscape inspires the building’s design and reflects the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The museum’s façade is characterised by its curved roofline and the use of natural materials such as timber and stone, which blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The central atrium provides a dramatic entrance to the museum, with its soaring glass walls and natural light creating a welcoming and spacious atmosphere. The museum’s exhibitions are housed in a series of interconnected galleries, each with its unique character and atmosphere.

Ovolo Nishi Grand Staircase

Ovolo Nishi is a luxury hotel in Canberra, Australia, known for its unique and innovative design. One of the hotel’s standout features is its Grand Stair, a large, sweeping staircase that serves as the main entrance to the building.

The Grand Stair is a stunning architectural feature that spans three floors and provides access to the hotel’s main lobby and guest rooms. The concrete stairs feature a striking, cantilevered design that appears to float in mid-air. The treads are lit from below, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that welcomes visitors to the hotel. In addition to its functional purpose, the Grand Stair also serves as an art installation in its own right.

The National Arboretum

The arboretum covers an area of over 250 hectares and is home to a diverse collection of over 94,000 trees and shrubs representing over 100 countries worldwide. Established in the aftermath of the 2003 bushfires that swept through the region, its mission is to promote the conservation and protection of Australia’s forest heritage. The National Arboretum also features several other attractions, including the forest sculpture gallery, picnic areas, walking trails, and scenic lookouts.

The arboretum is still growing, and most of the trees are not yet mature. While the views are great, the trees aren’t much to look at except in autumn. The Village Centre in the Arboretum houses a cafe, gift shop, and exhibition spaces. This makes it a great place to start or finish your visit to the National Arboretum.

National Zoo and Aquarium

The zoo houses various animals worldwide. Animals include but are not limited to:

• Big Cats: lions, tigers, and Jaguars
• Primates: gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans
• Marsupials: kangaroos, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils
• Birds: parrots, owls, and various species of exotic birds
• Reptiles: snakes, lizards, and turtles
• Aquatic animals: sharks, rays, and multiple species of fish
• Other mammals: meerkats, red pandas, and ring-tailed lemurs

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