Brisbane is the third largest city in Australia and was founded as a penal colony (one of the harshest penalties in Australia) in 1823. In 1859, Brisbane became the state capital. Its growth is mainly due to the port area and thanks to mining which had its full boom in the 60-70s. This rapid growth relatively late in Brisbane history provides it with a mix of decentralized urban environment.
19th century architecture can be found in the Spring Hill areas, and truly modern and cosmopolitan touches are beginning to stand out throughout the area. Brisbane has two world-renowned botanical gardens: City Botanic Gardens and Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. The first was built in 1855 right on the Brisbane River in the city center and is a true oasis in the city’s urban landscape. It is well known for its waterfowl and mangroves. 
Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens is just west of the city center near Mount Coot-tha Forest Park and was founded in 1976. Inside the park you can spend an entertaining day enjoying the Brisbane Planetarium, which is the largest in Australia . 
Not far from this area you can find a large number of late 19th century buildings that are part of Brisbane’s early history . Queenland’s Parliament House was built in 1865 on the French Renaissance model. It is an impressive structure inside and out. It is still used as the seat of government.