Capital Cities

Which capital city is known as the "City of Love"?

• Berlin

• London

• Paris

• Rome

Answer explanation

Paris has a long history of being associated with love and romance. The city has been the backdrop for countless romantic novels, films, and songs, solidifying its reputation as a destination for lovers. And let's not forget about the iconic Eiffel Tower, which has become a symbol of love and romance around the world

Which capital city features the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, Shibuya Crossing?

• Tokyo

• Seoul

• Beijing

• Kyoto

Answer explanation

According to the Shibuya Center Street in 2016, the number of pedestrians crossing the intersection was as much as 3,000 per green light (every 2 minutes). A 2014 flow measurement survey by the Shibuya Redevelopment Association estimated 260,000 pedestrians per day on week days, and 390,000 pedestrians on non-working days. Others estimate as much as 500,000 people on the busiest days.

In which capital city is the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of German unity and peace?

• Munich

• Berlin

• Hamburg

• Frankfurt

Answer explanation

The Brandenburg Gate used to be memorial of division - after the construction of the Berlin Wall, it was located in the restricted area and could not be visited by East or West Germans. After the fall of the Wall, the gate became a symbol of German unity.

Which capital city is home to the historic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

• Shanghai

• Beijing

• Guangzhou

• Shenzhen

Answer explanation

Forbidden City, imperial palace complex at the heart of Beijing (Peking), China. It was so named because access to the area was barred to most of the subjects of the realm. Government functionaries and even the imperial family were permitted only limited access; the emperor alone could enter any section at will.

In which capital city would you find the National Museum of Australia, showcasing the country's rich cultural history?

• Wellington

• Sydney

• Melbourne

• Canberra

Answer explanation

Canberra in Australia Capital Territory is a small city of around 450,000 people that sits between Sydney and Melbourne. The site was chosen as the location for Australia’s capital in 1908 as a compromise between the two aforementioned cities. The city was planned out in entirety before being built. Because of this, Canberra is an immaculate city with many tree-lined boulevards, wide roads, lush green parklands, and many nature reserves.

Which capital city is home to the famous Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world?

• Islamabad

• Lahore

• Karachi

• Peshawar

Answer explanation

Not only is the Faisal Mosque the largest mosque in Pakistan, but it is also the largest in South Asia and the sixth largest mosque in the world in terms of capacity. Combined the structure covers an area of 33 acres (130,000 m2; 1,400,000 sq ft), and can hold 300,000 worshipers. In fact, the Faisal Mosque was the largest mosque in the world from 1986 until 1993 when the newly completed Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco overtook it.

In which capital city is the annual Winterlude festival celebrated, featuring ice sculptures and outdoor activities?

• Oslo

• Toronto

• Arandelle

• Ottawa

Answer explanation

Winterlude attracts more than half a million people every year and takes place along the Rideau Canal. In the winter, the canal is the world’s longest skating rink at 7.8 kilometres in length!

In which capital city would you find the bustling district of Myeongdong, known for its shopping and street food?

• Seoul

• Busan

• Incheon

• Daegu

Answer explanation

Myeongdong is known for being one of Seoul's main shopping, parade route, and tourism districts. In 2011, 2012, and 2013, Myeongdong was listed as the ninth most expensive shopping street in the world. The area is known for its two historically significant sites, namely the Myeongdong Cathedral and the Myeongdong Theater.

Which capital city is famous for its historic Castle of São Jorge, offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River?

• Madrid

• Rome

• Lisbon

• Athens

Answer explanation

The Castle of São Jorge sits on the highest hill overlooking Lisbon, Portugal. Occupied since the 8 BC, has a rich history with Celtic tribes, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors contributing to its fortifications.

For a little twist, most people think that this city is a capital city, but it's not. It's known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, featuring colorful parades and samba music?

• Buenos Aires

• Santiago

• Montevideo

• Rio de Janeiro

Answer explanation

The current capital of Brazil, since its construction in 1960, is Brasília. Rio de Janeiro was the country's capital between 1763 and 1960.

The Carnival in Rio de Janeiro (Portuguese: Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro) is a festival held every year before Lent; it is considered the biggest carnival in the world, with two million people per day on the streets. The first Carnival festival in Rio occurred in 1723. Celebration prior to fasting season of Lent.