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ENGLISH-SPEAKING COUNTRIES: TORONTO, CANADA
Ten Interesting Facts About Toronto
Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is one of Canada’s most dynamic and diverse cities, known for its vibrant culture, world-class food scene, and extensive shopping opportunities. Here are ten fascinating facts about Toronto that highlight why it’s such a special place to visit and live.
1. Canada’s Most Populous City
Toronto is not only the capital of Ontario but also the largest city in Canada, with a population of 2,731,571 as of 2016. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has nearly 6 million residents, making it one of North America’s most populous urban regions.
2. A Global Hub for Culture and Business
Recognized as one of the world’s most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities, Toronto is a major center for business, finance, arts, and culture. It’s home to international companies and a melting pot of diverse cultures.
3. 10,000 Years of History
The Toronto area has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years by Indigenous peoples, long before it became the bustling metropolis it is today. Its strategic location along the shores of Lake Ontario has made it an important cultural and economic hub throughout history.
4. From York to Toronto
Toronto was originally known as York, established as the capital of Upper Canada in 1793. It was renamed and incorporated as Toronto in 1834, as the city began to grow and expand into the major urban center we know today.
5. Diversity at its Core
Toronto is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse cities. Over 50% of its residents belong to a visible minority, and more than 200 distinct ethnic origins are represented among its population. This makes Toronto a true reflection of Canada’s multicultural fabric.
6. A Multilingual City
While English is the primary language, Toronto is home to speakers of over 160 languages. It’s not uncommon to hear a wide variety of languages spoken in the streets, reflecting the city’s rich cultural diversity.
7. Entertainment Capital of Canada
Toronto is a major hub for music, theatre, film, and television production. It is home to Canada’s national broadcast networks, several movie studios, and hosts the internationally renowned Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which draws celebrities and film lovers from around the world.
8. A Cultural Hotspot
With over 25 million tourists visiting annually, Toronto offers something for everyone. Its numerous museums, galleries, festivals, historic sites, and sports events attract visitors from all corners of the globe. Notable attractions include the Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Distillery District.
9. Skyline Dominated by the CN Tower
Toronto’s skyline is famous for its skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, most notably the CN Tower. At 553 meters (1,815 feet), it was once the tallest free-standing structure in the world and remains the tallest in the Western Hemisphere.
10. Economic Powerhouse
Toronto is the financial heart of Canada, home to the Toronto Stock Exchange, the headquarters of Canada’s five largest banks, and numerous multinational corporations. The city’s economy is highly diverse, with strengths in technology, design, finance, education, life sciences, and tourism. This makes it one of the key economic hubs in North America.
Did You Know? Fascinating Facts About Toronto
- Toronto’s PATH is the world’s largest underground shopping complex, stretching over 30 kilometers (19 miles). It connects shops, restaurants, offices, and subway stations, making it easy to navigate the city without stepping outside!
- The Toronto Islands are the largest urban car-free community in North America. They offer a peaceful escape from the city with beaches, parks, and stunning views of the skyline.
- Toronto has more than 8,000 restaurants, offering a taste of virtually every cuisine from around the world. It’s one of the best cities to experience multicultural dining.
- Half of Toronto’s population was born outside of Canada, making it one of the most diverse cities on the planet.
- The CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure for over 30 years, and it still has the highest glass floor elevator ride in the world!
- Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market was named the world’s best food market by National Geographic in 2012.
- Lake Ontario, which Toronto sits on, is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. It’s the smallest by surface area but holds enough water to cover all of Canada 2.5 meters deep!
- Toronto hosts 158 different neighborhoods, each with its own unique culture, cuisine, and atmosphere, from the lively streets of Kensington Market to the trendy vibes of Queen Street West.
Read more about Toronto on Wikipedia
