Even More World Cities Trivia Quiz

Answer: Los Angeles

Los Angeles, a city often referred to as LA, is the largest city in California and a world metropolis for entertainment, culture, and innovation, yet not the capital of the state. Located in Southern California, it is known for its sprawling urban landscape, sunny weather, and diverse population. The city is famously home to Hollywood, the heart of the film and television industry, and is often associated with glamour and creativity.

Los Angeles boasts a variety of landmarks and attractions. Visitors can explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, take in the iconic view of the Hollywood sign, or enjoy the Griffith Observatory, which offers stunning views of the city and the stars above. The Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art showcase the city's vibrant arts scene, while Santa Monica and Venice Beach provide a quintessential California coastal experience. The city boasts some of the worst traffic in the United States, and has the potential for really bad earthquakes; Los Angeles sits on the San Andreas Fault, a major tectonic boundary between the Pacific and North American plates, making the region prone to seismic activity.

Finally, the abbreviation of "LA" has the distinction of being the most efficient abbreviation in the English language. The full name of the city was originally "El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora, Reina de los Angeles del Rio Porciuncula" making it shortened by 2850%.

Answer: Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is the largest city in the Arab world and a bustling metropolis that blends ancient history with modern urban life. Located on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo has been a center of culture, trade, and governance for over a thousand years, earning it the nickname "The City of a Thousand Minarets" for its abundance of Islamic architecture.

Cairo is most famous for its proximity to the Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. These wonders of the ancient world stand as testaments to Egypt's famous pharaonic past. The city itself is home to historical treasures like the Egyptian Museum, which houses an unparalleled collection of ancient artefacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Visitors can also explore the medieval streets of Islamic Cairo, the vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and the historic Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world.

Answer: Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and is significant for the massive strides it has taken to become a world-class metropolis. Founded in the 1850s as a tin mining settlement, it has grown rapidly into a major economic and cultural hub. Today, it is home to over 8 million people in the greater metropolitan area and is the center of Malaysia's government, finance, and commerce.

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Petronas Twin Towers, which were once the tallest buildings in the world (surpassed by the Taipei 101 in 2004) but remain an iconic symbol of Kuala Lumpur. Other notable sites include Merdeka Square, where Malaysia declared independence in 1957, the historic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, and the stunning Batu Caves, a Hindu temple complex set inside limestone caves just outside the city.

The city was founded by Chinese tin miners as a settlement where it was easy to resupply due to the confluence of the Gombak and Klang Rivers. The city's name is derived from that history and literally means "muddy confluence". The increased reliance on tin led to the expansion of the settlement, even after the location was taken over by the British Empire in the late 19th century. In fact, the city celebrates British administrator Frank Swettenham in his efforts to modernize the city. The city did fall to the Japanese during World War II, three years that are seen as a dark age for this habitation. After the war, the nationalist movement grew in Malaysia and independence was declared in Merdeka Square itself in 1957.

Answer: Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is one of the highest capital cities in the world, sitting at 2850 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains. It was founded in 1534 by Spanish conquistadors on the ruins of an Incan city named Quitu, for the indigenous Quitu people that once lived there and were conquered by the Incas. The modern city is filled with well-preserved colonial architecture that has stood the test of time. The historic center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring landmarks like the Basílica del Voto Nacional, Plaza de la Independencia, and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, famous for its intricate gold-covered interior.

Due to its location near the equator, Quito enjoys a mild climate year-round. The city is also a gateway to the Mitad del Mundo, a monument marking the approximate location of the equator, where visitors can stand in both hemispheres at once. As Ecuador's political and cultural capital, it is home to government institutions, universities, museums, and a thriving arts scene. Despite being an important city with a large population, Quito retains a certain charm with its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and vibrant markets. The nearby Pichincha volcano, which has erupted as recently as 1999, looms over the city, offering breathtaking views from its teleférico (cable car), one of the highest in the world.

Answer: Vancouver

Vancouver is a city located on the west coast of Canada in the province of British Columbia, though not the province's capital. It is a city known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and thriving economy. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coastal Mountains, Vancouver is a place for outdoor enthusiasts due to its access to a variety of adventure-like activities. The city's mild climate, especially compared to the rest of Canada, allows for year-round enjoyment of its parks, beaches, and nearby ski resorts. In fact, when the city expects even a mild snowfall, the locals treat it as a state of emergency.

Vancouver has a rich history, originally inhabited by Indigenous Coast Salish peoples long before European settlement. Today, the city is a major cultural and economic hub, with a strong film industry earning it the nickname "Hollywood North". Notable local landmarks include Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, Granville Island's vibrant market, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Vancouver also hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, a huge success for the city and for the country.

Answer: Mexico City

Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and it is one of the largest and most populous cities in the world. It has a history that stretches back over 700 years since it was actually built atop the ruins of the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán. Modern Mexico City blends rich pre-Columbian heritage with Spanish colonial architecture contrasting with modern skyscrapers. The weather there is mild for the latitude since the city is at an altitude of approximately 2,250 m above sea level.

In 1968, Mexico City welcomed the Summer Olympics, making history as the first Olympic Games to be held in Latin America. It was thrust into the headlines when athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos gave a Black Power salute when they were standing on the podium and the anthem was playing. Two years later, the city hosted the World Cup, with great matches held at the Azteca Stadium, including the then-heralded "Game of the Century" between West Germany and Italy. This semifinal game ended 2-2 after full time, and had an unheard of five goals scored in the extra half an hour. Italy came out on top, 4-3. The final ended with Brazil triumphing for their third title.

Mexico City is also known for its vibrant culture, from the bustling markets and street food to its museums, galleries, and music scene. The Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, while the canals of Xochimilco provide a colourful glimpse into the city's Aztec roots. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to landmarks such as the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace, where Diego Rivera's famous murals can be seen.

Answer: Manchester

Manchester, a great city located in the northwest of England, is known for its industrial heritage, cultural contributions, and vibrant modern life. Known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester played a pivotal role in the development of the textile industry during the 18th and 19th centuries. This earned it the nickname "Cottonopolis". The city's canals, railways, and mills were at the forefront of technological innovation and economic growth during this period which helped the local population greatly.

Today, the modern city of Manchester is particularly celebrated for its cultural and sporting achievements. Landmarks such as the John Rylands Library, the Manchester Town Hall, and the Science and Industry Museum showcase the roots of the settlement. However, its number one draw has to be the world-class football teams that call the city home, Manchester United and Manchester City, whose rival stadiums draw fans from across the globe. Music is another hallmark of Manchester's identity, with bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division, all originating from this city.

Answer: Monaco

Monaco, a tiny sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, the second-smallest country in the world but one of the most densely populated, is renowned for its wealth, glamour, and picturesque Mediterranean setting. Despite its small size, covering just over two square kilometres, Monaco is a global hub for luxury living and high-end tourism. It is also a world leader in land reclamation, having stretched into the sea for more living space. The principality is ruled by the Grimaldi family whose history dates back to the 13th century.

Monaco is best known for landmarks such as the Prince's Palace, the lavish Monte Carlo Casino, and the Oceanographic Museum, which was once directed by diving pioneer Jacques Cousteau. The annual Monaco Grand Prix, a Formula 1 race through the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, is one of the most prestigious events in motorsport. Monaco has expanded its small territory through land reclamation projects, most notably in the Fontvieille district, which was developed in the 1970s and added significant residential and commercial space to the principality. Monaco also has its own tongue, the Monégasque language, which is a Ligurian dialect. It is a cherished symbol of local identity, though sadly spoken by only a small portion of the population. French serves as the official language.

Answer: Guangzhou

Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province in southern China, is one of the country's most important commercial and cultural centers. Historically known as Canton, it has been a major port city for over two millennia, dating back to the Qin dynasty. The city sits on the Pearl River, making it a key point in China's trade routes, particularly during the Canton Trade System when it was the only port open to foreign trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. Until the Treaty of Nanking, foreign trade had to go through the city, and only through a specific area where special merchants were licensed to conduct foreign trade.

Guangzhou's rich history is reflected in its architecture, such as the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees and the Zhenhai Tower, which overlook the city's skyline. The city is also known for its modernity, with landmarks like the massive Canton Tower, one of the tallest structures in China, and the sprawling Canton Fair, a major international trade event. The name "Guangzhou" is derived from two Chinese characters meaning "vast" and "region". The name likely refers to the city's broad or expansive geographical area, and its historical influence over a large region due to it being a trade hub. It was, and still is, a significant political and commercial region in southern China.

Answer: Marrakech

Marrakech, located in the western part of Morocco, is one of the kingdom's most vibrant and historically rich cities. Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech has long been a key trading hub, connecting sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and the Mediterranean. The name of the city is believed to have derived from the Berber phrase "Mur N'Akuch", which translates to "Land of God" pointing to the city's origins. Nowadays, the city is known for its bustling souks, stunning palaces, and beautiful gardens, offering a blend of traditional Moroccan culture and contemporary influences.

The medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with traditional colourful markets selling everything from spices to textiles. The Koutoubia Mosque, sporting a striking minaret, dominates the skyline. The Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs are exotic and interesting to visit. Another must-see is the Jardin Majorelle, a peaceful garden once owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent, housing a collection of exotic plants and vibrant blue colours. Marrakech is also famous for its lively public squares, like Jemaa el-Fnaa, where snake charmers, street performers, and food vendors peddle their wares to create the city's special atmosphere.