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Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga: Adelaide's Central Plaza

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Discover Adelaide's heart at Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga: a vibrant hub of culture, history, and events in the city center.

Victoria Square, also known as Tarntanyangga, is the central and largest of Adelaide's six public squares, designed in 1837 by Colonel William Light. Named after Princess Victoria, it serves as a focal point for cultural and civic activities, reflecting its dual heritage through its Kaurna name, meaning 'red kangaroo dreaming'.

A brief summary to Victoria Square

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Victoria Square.

  • Check the Adelaide City Council's website for upcoming events and festivals happening in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga.
  • Visit the Adelaide Central Market, located on the western side of the square, for fresh produce, gourmet food, and souvenirs.
  • Take a stroll through Reconciliation Plaza and learn about the square's significance to the Kaurna people.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the lawns or relax on the benches surrounding the square.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many points in the Adelaide CBD. From Rundle Mall, head south along King William Street for approximately 10 minutes. The square will be on your left. No cost involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Glenelg Tram stops directly at Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. From Adelaide Railway Station, take the tram towards Glenelg and alight at the Victoria Square stop. The journey takes approximately 6 minutes and costs $5. Alternatively, several bus routes stop near the square. Check Adelaide Metro for specific routes and timetables. The free City Connector bus also stops at Victoria Square.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Adelaide. A short trip from Adelaide Railway Station to Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga will cost approximately $6-$9 and take around 2 minutes. Note that prices may vary depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. Wilson Parking at 23 Franklin St and 58-60 Carrington St offer hourly, early bird, and weekend rates. UPark Grote and UPark Topham also provide convenient and affordable parking options. Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during events. Hourly parking rates typically range from $4-$6, while early bird and night rates can be found for as low as $7. Wilson Parking at 23 Franklin St Car Park offers hourly, Online Early Bird, Night and Weekend parking options. Please allow additional time when entering and exiting the car park.

Discover more about Victoria Square

Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, situated in the heart of Adelaide, is a historically significant plaza that has evolved from a dusty paddock to a vibrant urban space. Originally a gathering place for the Kaurna people, known as Tarndanya, it was a site for ceremonies and dances long before European settlement. In 1837, Colonel William Light designed the city of Adelaide with a central square, initially called "The Great Square," which was later named Victoria Square in honor of Princess Victoria.Throughout its history, Victoria Square has undergone numerous transformations. In 1854, the Adelaide City Council initiated a planting program, constructing pedestrian paths and erecting a wooden fence. Over time, the square has been redesigned and altered to improve its appearance and usability. Today, Victoria Square is surrounded by important buildings, including the Supreme Court of South Australia, the Adelaide General Post Office, and the Roman Catholic Cathedral Church of St Francis Xavier.The square features several notable landmarks, including a bronze statue of Queen Victoria, Reconciliation Plaza (home to the Australian National Flag and the Aboriginal Flag), and the Three Rivers Fountain. The Three Rivers Fountain, designed by John Dowie, commemorates Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Adelaide in the 1960s. Victoria Square continues to be a gathering place for social, political, and historical matters, hosting various events and festivals throughout the year.

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