The capital city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada is the home of the provincial government. It is the location of the Alberta Legislature Building where MLAs and the Premier meet to conduct governmental duties. Many people incorrectly assume that Calgary is the Alberta capital, as that City is the largest. That assumption is incorrect.
What Alberta City is the Capital of Alberta?
Edmonton is the Capital city of Alberta, Canada. Edmonton became the capital of Alberta in 1905, the same year that Alberta became a province.
Why Was Edmonton Chosen as the Capital of Alberta?
There is not one specific reason for Edmonton being chosen as the capital. Historians can give a wide variety of explanations. The general consensus is that Edmonton was the main economic driver of the province during that time. Major oil discoveries were being made in Northern Alberta and around the general Edmonton area.
See our article on Why Alberta Has so much oil.
Edmonton’s Role as Alberta’s Capital
Edmonton is more than just the capital city; it serves as the administrative and governmental heart of Alberta. The city houses the provincial legislature and numerous government offices, making it the epicenter for policy-making and provincial administration. This central role has cemented Edmonton’s position as a key city in the political landscape of Alberta.
The Evolution of Edmonton as the Capital
The choice of Edmonton as Alberta’s capital wasn’t made overnight. Historical decisions played a crucial role, with Edmonton’s central location and economic potential influencing its selection over other cities, such as Calgary. This decision shaped the province’s administrative framework and contributed to Edmonton’s growth and development.
Edmonton’s Cultural and Economic Impact
Edmonton’s status as the capital has fostered a rich cultural environment, making it a hub for festivals, arts, and corporate activity. The city hosts numerous cultural events annually, attracting visitors from across Alberta and beyond, and its economic landscape continues to thrive with a growing corporate presence.
Edmonton as a Hub for Transportation and Accessibility
Being the capital, Edmonton is well-connected through a robust transportation network, including extensive road, bus, and rail systems. This accessibility not only serves the residents but also strengthens its role as a central hub for transportation in Alberta and Canada.
What is the Largest City in Alberta?
While Edmonton is the capital city, Calgary is the largest city by population and land area in Alberta.
World Atlas – Largest Canadian Cities by Land Area
Both cities are in the same time zone.
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Capital City of Alberta Key Points:
- Edmonton is the Capital city of Alberta, Canada. It has always been this way. It became the capital during the same time period of Alberta becoming a province.
- Edmonton, Alberta, Canada was a logical choice for the capital at the time, as there was a massive amount of oil production and discovery occurring in that region.
- Calgary, Alberta, Canada is not the capital, though it is the largest Alberta city. Calgary has the largest land area, and the highest population.
