Toronto

City in Ontario, Canada

Toronto is the capital city of the Canadian province of Ontario. With a population of over 2.7 million people, it is the most populous city in Canada and the fourth most populous city in North America. Toronto is an international centre of business, finance, arts, and culture, and is widely recognized as one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in the world.

History

The Battle of York during the War of 1812

The area that is now Toronto has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The city was originally known as "York" when it was established in 1793 by John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada. During the War of 1812, the Battle of York took place in 1813, resulting in the capture and looting of the town by American forces.

In 1834, York was incorporated as the city of Toronto. The name "Toronto" is derived from a Mohawk word meaning "where there are trees standing in the water." The city grew rapidly in the 19th century, becoming a major destination for immigrants and a hub for trade and industry.

Toronto in the 19th century

Geography

Toronto is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes. The city covers an area of 630.2 square kilometers and is characterized by its flat topography, with the Toronto ravine system providing some variation in elevation. The city is bordered by the Golden Horseshoe, a densely populated region that extends around the western end of Lake Ontario.

Climate

Toronto has a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from an average of -3°C in January to 27°C in July. The proximity to Lake Ontario moderates the climate, providing milder winters and cooler summers compared to other Canadian cities.

Economy

Toronto is the financial capital of Canada, home to the Toronto Stock Exchange and the headquarters of Canada's five largest banks. The city's economy is diverse, with strengths in finance, technology, design, education, arts, and tourism. Toronto is also a major center for the media and entertainment industries.

Culture

The Royal Ontario Museum

Toronto is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra are among the city's most prominent cultural institutions. The city hosts several annual events, including the Toronto International Film Festival, one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world.

Landmarks

Toronto skyline

Toronto is home to many iconic landmarks, including the CN Tower, one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world. Other notable landmarks include Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival style mansion and garden, and the Ontario Legislative Building, which houses the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

Casa Loma

Transportation

Toronto has an extensive public transportation system operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), which includes buses, streetcars, and subways. The city is also served by GO Transit, which provides regional rail and bus services. Toronto Pearson International Airport is the primary airport serving the city, offering flights to destinations around the world.

Parks and Recreation

Toronto boasts a wide array of parks and recreational areas, including High Park, the city's largest public park, and the Toronto Islands, a chain of small islands in Lake Ontario. The Humber Bay Arch Bridge is a notable pedestrian and cycling bridge that spans the Humber River.

Humber Bay Arch Bridge

Government

Toronto is governed by a mayor-council system, with the Toronto City Council serving as the legislative body. The city is divided into 25 wards, each represented by a city councillor. The Ontario Legislative Building is located in Toronto, serving as the seat of the provincial government.

Ontario Legislative Building

Related pages

• Greater Toronto Area
• History of Toronto
• Culture of Toronto
• Economy of Toronto