In the first half of the XIX century, a huge piece of gold was found in the Australian state of Victoria – the largest existing at that time in the world. This event gave impetus to the beginning of the gold rush, numerous waves of emigration from Europe and the flourishing of Melbourne. For two centuries, the city grew rich and eventually turned into the most prosperous and comfortable metropolis in Australia.
Melbourne is compared to the well-fed and prosperous cities of Switzerland, in some respects it even surpasses its European competitors. First of all, it is the industrial, economic and financial center of the country. But the city also has something to attract tourists: the historical center, consisting of buildings of the XIX century, smoothly turns into modern quarters, museums and galleries organize interesting exhibitions, and high-class restaurants will delight gourmets with dishes of world cuisine.