The independent city of Charlottesville lies within the Albemarle county of Virginia that is situated in the central region of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The city had derived its name from its colonial rulers, the British, who named it after their Princess Charlotte, wife to George III. Originally, a very small town significant in Albemarle as its county seat, the city of Charlottesville occupies a central position on the Appalachian upland belt. Hence, the topography of Charlottesville constitutes of little hilly terrains and steep mountains.
Charlottesville enjoys quite an enviable position in between the capital of US, Washington DC And the capital of Virginia, Richmond. From Washington DC, the city of Charlottesville is approximately at a distance of 123 miles to the southwest, while from Richmond, Charlottesville lies at a distance of 71 miles to the west. This location of Charlottesville has transformed it into an extremely significant metropolitan area, wherein resides around 40,002 of Virginians. The total area of Charlottesville is around 10.8 square miles.
In earlier days, the economy of Charlottesville was extremely suited to the cultivation of wheat, corn and tobacco but often people switched to alternative means of livelihood through ferrying, ordinaries or through mills. Today, however, Charlottesville ‘s economy is mostly dependent on tourism and the place offers a wide platter to the tourist. Rich in historical heritage, Charlottesville is home to 5 beautiful heritage buildings named Monticello, Ash Lawn-Highland, Historic Court Square, Grounds of the University of Virginia and the Michie Tavern. Besides these historical treasures, Charlottesville is also home to some beautiful wineries, important museums, sprawling parks and various shops.