Adelaide, named after Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, wife of King William IV, was founded in 1836 as the planned capital for the only freely settled British province in Australia. Designed by Colonel William Light, one of the city's founding fathers, Adelaide's central layout, known as "Light's Vision," features a grid pattern interspersed with wide boulevards, large public squares, and is entirely surrounded by parklands. This design, now recognized as national heritage, reflects the city’s forward-thinking approach since its inception.

In the early colonial days, Adelaide stood apart from other Australian cities with its absence of convicts, as it was founded by free settlers. By the late 1800s, the city’s population had reached about 50,000, shaped by its diverse and affluent inhabitants. Known for its progressive political reforms and religious freedom, Adelaide earned the moniker "City of Churches," reflecting its cultural and religious diversity.

Today, Adelaide is a popular travel destination, attracting visitors for its renowned events like the Adelaide 500, the Tour Down Under, LIV Golf Adelaide, and the world-famous Adelaide Fringe, the second-largest arts festival globally. The city's automotive legacy is also significant, having hosted the Australian Grand Prix from 1985 to 1995.

Modern-day Adelaide is celebrated for its festivals, sports events, food and wine culture, as well as its scenic coastline and hills. The city plays a major role in South Australia’s economy, with thriving defence, manufacturing, and emerging space sectors, including the headquarters of the Australian Space Agency located in the central business district. Adelaide’s exceptional quality of life has earned it numerous accolades, including being named Australia’s most liveable city and ranking third globally at one point. In 2024, Architectural Digest named Adelaide the most beautiful city in the world, a testament to its aesthetic appeal.

As South Australia's governmental and commercial hub, Adelaide is home to key institutions along cultural boulevards like North Terrace and King William Street. Categorized as a Gamma+ global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, Adelaide continues to strengthen its connection to the global economy while preserving its rich history and cultural significance.