The Rocks, Sydney
The Rocks is one of the most-visited parts of Sydney. It is not hard to see why. Nestled at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and on the western shores of Sydney Cove, The Rocks is the foundation place of Sydney and Australia, and of enormous historical signifiance. It is often described as “Sydney’s outdoors museum”. The Rocks is the oldest area of Sydney and has recently undergone an amazing metamorphosis, the old district being transformed into a vibrant pocket of cafes and restaurants and interesting tourist shops and stalls. The Rocks also features a fabulous market at the weekend, as well as life music at various venues around the Rocks. There are a full range of stalls offering unique and wonderful gifts, as well as delicious food stalls and much more. There are also a number of walking tours around the area, including an interesting historical walking tour of the Rocks. There are many stops along these tours including Sydney’s first goal, Cadman’s Cottage and Sydney’s shortest street.
The Rocks History
The Rocks became established shortly after the colony’s formation in 1788. The original buildings were made mostly of local sandstone, from which the area derives its name. From the earliest history of the settlement, the area had a reputation as a slum, often frequented by visiting sailors and prostitutes. During the late 1800s, the area was dominated by a gang known as the Rocks Push. It maintained this rough reputation until approximately the 1970s.
As the landing place of 1400 men, women and children in 1788 (over half being convicts) the restored district provides the visitor a fascinating insight into Australian history. The area is located a short walk west from the Sydney Opera House. Just over 200 years ago, Captain Arthur Phillip brought his fleet of 10 square-rigged sailing ships to anchor in the peaceful little bay that was to become known as Sydney Cove. More on Sydney History.
Attractions in The Rocks
Near the Sydney Visitor Center, in Kendall Lane, you will discover one of the area’s newest attractions - The Rocks Discovery Museum. Through a series of interesting interactive exhibits, the Museum reveals the development of The Rocks from before the arrival of the first white settlers through to the beautifully preserved historical precinct we know today, that resulted from the trade union-led protests of the 1970s. The Rocks Discovery Museum is open every day 10am - 5pm and entry is free.
The Rocks Farmers’ Market will commence trading in September 2008. Click here to download an application form. The revitalized Rocks Market will also be launched in 2008 and will continue to operate every Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 5pm. The market will be located at the northern end of George Street, The Rocks and will also be expanded into other parts of The Rocks to allow for a greater number of stalls.
A must for visitors
Just across Sydney Cove from the Opera House, The Rocks district is a must for visitors to Australia. Here, buildings exuding the country’s historic past combine with today’s amenities to provide a unique precinct that caters almost completely to the visitors’ needs. There are restaurants, bistros, pubs, souvenir shops, weekend markets, music and entertainment along its main streets and squares.
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