Virginia

Information and Tourism

Virginia is like no other American state. There is simply so much history associated with this state that it seems everywhere you turn, something important once happened here. This is the home of the first permanent English colony. There is a saying that the state's history is pretty much the same as America's history. In other words, what took place here in those early days influenced other pioneering settlements in the New World.

During the American Civil War, Virginia was the Confederate capital. Its General Assembly is the oldest in this part of the world. Many key historical figures hail from this state, including the legendary Pocahontas. This Virginian Indian is said to have saved the life of captured Englishman John Smith in the year of 1607. She eventually married a tobacco planter and, as Rebecca Rolfe, became something of a celebrity in London. Eight US presidents were born in Virginia, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson - hence its nickname as 'Mother of Presidents', a title shared with Ohio.

Over the years, the state has changed from being mostly rural and conservative to more urbanized and moderate in its political outlook. Like most US states, it has clung fiercely to its traditions. There is still a strong Virginia wine-making industry based here, while the state also has its own ham named after it, which can only be made in the Virginian town of Smithfield.

If visiting tourists can bear to tear themselves away from Virginia's past, they'll be rewarded with a glimpse of the Appalachian Mountains, some great beaches and the green, green hills of Piedmont.

Virginia Information and Fast Facts

• Country: USA
• Population: approximately 8.2 million
• Capital city: Richmond
• Biggest city: Virginia Beach
• Biggest urban area: Northern Virginia
• Language: American English
• Area: 42,780 square miles / 110,800 square kilometers

	WORLD GUIDES TO VIRGINIA
	World Guide to Arlington, VA, USA Best known for being home of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington is close to Washington DC, which stands across the Potomac River. Arlington features a distinctive skyline, superb shopping and many impressive landmarks.
	World Guide to Richmond, VA, USA Richmond, state capital, is a large independent city which was founded in 1607. With many historic buildings and a true southern charm, Richmond contains a scenic walking trail along James River and the Virginia State Capitol building.
	World Guide to Virginia Beach, VA, USA Virginia Beach is a particularly popular tourist spot in Virginia, featuring the longest pleasure beach in the world. Home to a spectacular oceanfront boardwalk and a vibrant beach life, Virginia Beach is the state's largest city.
	World Guide to Williamsburg, VA, USA Home of colonial America, Williamsburg is a major tourist destination with an array of sightseeing opportunities. Williamsburg features notable historic sites and buildings, and also many outstanding family attractions and theme parks.

Map of Virginia