Tasmania is an island state of Australia, located approximately 240 km to the south of the Australian mainland, separated by the Bass Strait. It is the 26th-largest island in the world and covers an area of around 68,401 sq km. As of a 2021 estimate, its population is about 541,100 people.
The capital and largest city of Tasmania is Hobart, which is also the second oldest capital in Australia, after Sydney. Other major cities include Launceston, Devonport, and Burnie. Tasmania is known for its stunning natural beauty with almost half of its land area consisting of national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and reserves.
The island's economy largely depends on mining, agriculture, tourism, and forestry. The state is rich in natural resources like zinc, copper, and iron. It is also one of the leading producers of fine cool-climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot noir.
Tasmania has a cool temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The island is also known for its unique wildlife, including the iconic Tasmanian devil. It is the only place in the world where these animals are found in the wild.
Despite being first sighted by European explorers in 1642, Tasmania had been inhabited by Aboriginal Tasmanians for at least 35,000 years before British colonisation. It was named after Dutch explorer Abel Tasman.
Tasmania also has a diverse cultural scene, hosting several music and arts festivals like MONA FOMA and the Falls Festival. It is home to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), the Southern Hemisphere's largest private museum.
