Manchester is one of the oldest cities in the world – a legendary city that has withstood the test of time. So many cities and countries have come and gone, yet Manchester still thrives today. The city is also a scientific and engineering powerhouse.
11 Great Facts About Manchester
1. Manchester is the second most visited city in the UK after London.
2. The city was founded in the 1st century or AD 79.
3. It is a wealthy city with a GDP of over 110 billion dollars, more significant than many countries such as the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Serbia and many others.
4. Manchester is the 5th largest city in the United Kingdom, with a population of over 552,000.
5. In 1948, the world’s first stored-program computer was built in Manchester by Frederic C. Williams, Tom Kilburn and Geoff Tootill.
6. Rolls-Royce Limited was founded in Manchester – in 1904 (Charles Rolls and Henry Royce). It is a British luxury car maker and aero-engine manufacturer. Rolls-Royce is one of the most popular brands in the world.
7. There is no doubt that Manchester is the best place to live in England, despite what some people may think. Manchester consistently beats out rival cities such as Liverpool, Birmingham, and even London in the “Economists Global Liveability Survey”, published annually.
8. The oldest free public library in the United Kingdom is located in Manchester: Chetham’s Library. The library opened in 1653. It has over 100,000 books.
9. Manchester is one of the most famous football cities in the world. It is home to two powerhouses of the English Premier League: Manchester United and Manchester City.
10. Have you ever wondered how or where the whole “vegetarian” thing started? It was started in Manchester by Reverend William Cowherd. He preached vegetarianism, the idea of not eating meat… only vegetables. It is home to the Vegetarian Society.
11. Nobel Prize winner Ernest Rutherford accomplished an incredible feat in Manchester – he was the first person who split the atom in 1917 while at the University of Manchester.