Great cities deserve great encyclopedias. A city is known by its past, its characteristic virtues and troubles, and its ways of life. ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ symbolises the achievements of Australian urbanisation and suburbanisation. The Encyclopedia of Melbourne reflects and encompasses the city’s historical position as one of the world’s pre-eminent nineteenth century metropolises, and as one of the twenty-first century’s most liveable cities. Alphabetical entries range from short factual summaries about places, institutions and events, through to extended survey articles on key topics such as Architecture, Aboriginal Melbourne, Economy, Foundation and Early Settlement, Law and Order, Literature, Science, Sport, Suburbia, Theatre and Transport. Although Australia has long ranked amongst the world’s most urbanised countries, no comparable reference work exists on any Australian metropolis.