Vancouver's origins trace back to the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years.

Captain George Vancouver explored the Burrard Inlet in 1792, giving the city its name, though the area remained largely undeveloped until the mid-19th century.

Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, grew rapidly around a single saloon in 1867, becoming the nucleus for a burgeoning logging and sawmill industry.

Vancouver was incorporated as a city in 1886, spurred by the promise of becoming the western terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which connected it to the rest of Canada.

The city's strategic location on the Pacific coast has made it a major port for international trade, particularly with Asia, contributing significantly to Canada's economy.

Vancouver's geography is characterized by its stunning natural setting, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, offering diverse landscapes from beaches to ski slopes.

Stanley Park, a sprawling urban oasis, encompasses over 400 hectares and features ancient forests, scenic seawalls, and cultural landmarks, attracting millions of visitors annually.

The city's population has grown rapidly in recent decades, becoming one of Canada's most diverse metropolitan areas, with a significant immigrant population from Asia and other parts of the world.

Vancouver's economy is diverse, with major industries including film and television production ("Hollywood North"), technology, tourism, natural resources, and real estate.

The Port of Vancouver is Canada's largest and most diversified port, handling billions of dollars in goods annually and playing a crucial role in global supply chains.

Vancouver's cultural scene is vibrant, with a thriving arts community, numerous theaters, music venues, and museums, reflecting its multicultural population.

The Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) is one of the largest film festivals in North America, showcasing a wide range of international and Canadian films.

While not a UNESCO World Heritage Site itself, Vancouver is close to several designated sites, including the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, showcasing its proximity to natural wonders.

Vancouver played a significant role in hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, showcasing Canada's athletic prowess and contributing to the city's global recognition.

The city has pioneered various sustainability initiatives, aiming to become the greenest city in the world by 2020, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy.