Birmingham, which is Alabama's largest city, is also one of it's youngest. In a little more than 100 years, Birmingham has changed from vast farmlands to a major commercial, manufacturing and service center, while still maintaining its Southern hospitality and charm.
What fueled Birminghams fast growth was the discovery of abundent iron ore, coal and limestone, the essential ingredients for the production of steel. Along with this discovery came railways to haul these minerals.
The population of Birmingham is 300,000 in the city proper, and a metro population of 1,000,000. The area is blessed with a year-round average temperature of 62, with the area rarely seeing any snow. Birmingham is now a major medical, educational, engineering, financial, and technology center.
Birmingham is home to The University of Alabama at Birmingham and Samford University, as well as a host of other places to visit, such as museums, botanical gardens, historical landmarks, and a zoo.
