Today (July 23rd) marks the first day of the Commonwealth Games, one the most coveted events in the athletics calendar.

Since the first Games in Hamilton, Canada in 1930 this multi-sport event has the number of participating Commonwealth countries steadily increase from 11 to 71.

Held every four years the Commonwealth Games is third only to the Olympic Games and the Asian Games, and all eyes will be firmly fixed on Glasgow as the 2014 Games host. Below we reflect on some of the host cities of the Commonwealth Games throughout the years.

Glasgow, Scotland- 2014

One of Scotland’s most vibrant cities, and its largest, Glasgow is famed for attractions including the nearby Loch Lomond, the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain, Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley and its thriving arts and culture scene, including museums such as the Gallery of Modern Art.

 

Picture credit:Eric Roy

Delhi, India – 2010

The largest city in India by land area and population Delhi is a hive of activity. With World Heritage Monuments to marvel at including Humayun's Tomb - the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent – and the breathtaking beauty of temples such as Akshardham Temple to marvel at, visitors will enjoy a journey of sights, sounds and smells that they’re unlikely to forget.

 

Picture credit: Vielle Mietten

Melbourne, Australia – 2006

The capital of the Australian state of Victoria, Melbourne offers the best of both city and country. Whether you’re sampling the delights of the city’s nightlife in the renowned Crown Entertainment Complex or getting back to nature in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, you’re visit to Melbourne is likely to be a memorable one.

 

Picture credit:Hai Lingh Truong

Manchester, England – 2002

One of the North of England’s powerhouses, Manchester has played host to several key sporting fixtures in addition to the Commonwealth Games including the Cricket World Cup, the FA Cup finals and more. Attractions including the Wheel of Manchester and the cobbles of Coronation Street draw visitors to the city time and time again.

 

Picture credit:Matthew Hartley

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 1998

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Malaysia’s federal capital as part of their nine-day tour of the Far East in 2012, and no doubt saw how the old and new sat side by side in the city in marked contrast. Skyscrapers, historic temples, street food stalls and more are all interwoven to create the diversity that Kuala Lumpur is famed for.

 

 

Picture credit: Cheekylisa2002