The Rocks - Sydney - A Touch of Australian History

When Captain Arthur Phillip brought the 11 ships of the First Fleet into Sydney Cove he set up Australias first settlement at what is now called The Rocks in Sydney. He brought with him 759 convicts and 200 soldiers to guard them. So began the harsh job of creating a new country that is now one of the best places on earth to live.

When you consider Australia's convict heritage, the harsh and cruel conditions the first settlers suffered, the ignoble history of contact with the indigenous people and the fact that it's population has come from almost every country in the world, it is amazing that today Australia is one of the safest, most law abiding, liberal and free country's on earth. A paradise rich in mineral resources and economic opportunity. And it all started at the Rocks.

ESTV take you on a tour of the Rocks area of downtown Sydney. Tourist area, cultural centre and home to restaurants and pubs opposite the famous Opera House and nestled below the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• The Rocks Sydney
• Sydney Harbour
• Cadman's Cottage
• Mariners Church
• Atherton Street
• Unwins
• ESTV
• Tour Sydney
• Opera House
• Harbour Bridge

[verticalsmurf]

I love the Rocks. One day on a whim some friends and I decided to walk down an alley and to our surprise walked into the courtyard of a very busy pub (which also served great food). We spent the rest of the day following every alley we came across and were never disappointed. We even found a shop that sold hand made dolls, puppets and marionettes!