There are few cities in Australia which create grandiose impressions on
first glance but the city of Ballarat in Victoria certainly does that. Nowhere
does this better than when you enter from the west of the city via the Western
Highway along the Avenue of Honour where the 22 kilometer long street is lined
with trees in honour of all those who fought in the First World War. Ballarat
has an interesting and rich history, growing prosperous due to the wealth of
gold which came from the nearby reef mines, and its multitude of cultural
attractions creates a wonderfully energetic and appealing atmosphere for
visitors.
Lydiard Street
Wander away from the train station and you will discover the beautiful
Lydiard Street. Built in the 19th century, Lydiard Street is famous for its
stunning historical architecture, ranging from terraced shops, soaring edifices
and intricate iron-lace balconies – all creating a charming ambience for those
who appreciate the beauty of 19th century architecture.
Ballarat Art Gallery
Not only does that Ballarat Art Gallery have one of the best collections
of art in Australia, it is also the oldest provincial museum in the entire
country. Originally opening in 1884, the first Eureka Flag is still on display,
frayed edges and all. Encased in a special cabinet with muted lights in order
to safeguard it, it really does capture the imagination. The art gallery also
provides free guided tours between Wednesday and Sunday at 2pm.
The Botanical Gardens
Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens are the perfect attraction for visitors of
all ages. It was first created in 1858 just to the north of the modern day city
and has blossomed into a fantastic site filled with a range of different flora.
The Conservatory within the gardens highlights particular flowers, especially
that of begonias, and the Begonia Festival which takes place in March every
year for ten days. Within the Botanical Gardens there are certain sights not to
miss, including a gigantic redwood tree along the Avenue of Big Trees, as well
as a wealth of statues of classical designs that were donated by gold miners
who struck it rich.
Sovereign Hill
One particular attraction which draws in the crowds at Ballarat is the
recreated Sovereign Hill. Reached via the number 9 bus on Sturt Street,
Sovereign Hill is a fantastic day out for all the family. Situated just over a
kilometer to the south of Ballarat, it was established around a true mine shaft
from the late 19th century. All the buildings on Sovereign Hill are all based
on paintings and photos of what Ballarat used to look like in the middle of the
19th century, giving it an authentic feel.
Gold Museum
Literally facing Sovereign Hill, the Gold Museum offers a tantalizing
insight into gold rush fever. The museum holds real gold mined from Ballarat,
along with a great collection of gold coins and interesting historical facts.
This includes the conditions of the miners and the reasons that led to the
Eureka Sockade. Wander around this incredible city and you will discover a
destination that will capture both the imagination and the heart.
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