The square is officially named Tarntanyangga, meaning 'Red Kangaroo Dreaming place', acknowledging its significance to the Kaurna people.
The Three Rivers Fountain was originally installed in 1968 and features a design that honors Adelaide's major water sources.
It is one of five public squares designed by Colonel William Light as part of the original 1837 Adelaide city plan.
The square hosts the annual Adelaide Central Market's outdoor overflow events and various festive light displays during winter.
The statues located within the square depict Queen Victoria and Colonel William Light, representing the city's colonial heritage.
Victoria Square, known as Tarntanyangga in the Kaurna language, serves as the geographical and civic heart of Adelaide. The square features a central fountain, extensive lawns, and integrated walking paths designed for public gathering and recreation. It houses the Three Rivers Fountain, which symbolizes the Torrens, Sturt, and Onkaparinga rivers. The site serves as a frequent venue for festivals, markets, and public protests. It is surrounded by major municipal and legal buildings, including the Adelaide Central Market and the Supreme Court of South Australia. The area underwent a significant multi-stage redevelopment completed in the mid-2010s to improve accessibility and modern aesthetics. It functions as a primary transit hub for the city's tram network, connecting the north and south of the metropolitan area. The parkland provides open space for city workers and visitors amidst the urban grid.
From the south end of the square looking north towards the fountain with the historic buildings in the background.
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Adelaide Central Market for local food options.
Use the central grass areas during the work week to observe local city life and business activity.
Stay alert when walking through the center as it is a major crossing point for the city's tram system.
Do not mistake the square for a quiet nature reserve, as it is a high-traffic urban transit intersection.
Maintain respectful behavior during public protests or memorial events often held in the square.
