Birmingham is said to have existed for more than 10,000 years - so there are many different things that it ahs beocme known for througout the different eras.
It is a city full of vibrant heritage and rich culture which celebrates diversity and has an impressive reputation for innovation and entrepreneurialism.
Birmingham has seen times of hardship as well as success, like other big cities in the UK and Europe. In more recent times, it’s become known for many amazing things like its long canals, manufacturing, jewellery, and culture.
Birmingham has made great contributions to arts and literature as well as the growth of the nation. But not everyone realises how great it is - with many astonished at its beauty when the come to visit.
Here are 11 of the things that Birmingham is best known for today:
1. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders - the gritty gangster family epic set in 1900s England, is based in Birmingham. The creator of the show Steven Knight lived in Birmingham growing up and was inspired by the real-life street gang based in Birmingham, England, which operated from the 1880s until the 1910s. (Photo - Caryn Mandabach Productions) | Caryn Mandabach Productions
2. Music
Birmingham is the birthplace of Metal thanks to Black Sabbath. The city is also known for being home to multiple rock bands and rock stars as well as other genres of music. From Duran Duran to UB40 - they have all had their start in the city. (Photo - Getty Images) | Getty Images
3. Bithplace of the Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkein lived in Birmingham and large parts of his epic fantasy books - The Lord of the Rings - are inspired by landscape in the West Midlands, especially Birmingham. (Photo by Sandy Huffaker/Getty Images) | Getty Images
4. Canals
Birmingham has canals longer than Venice. The whole Birmingham Canal Navigations (BCN) system adds up to 100 miles of canals. They were the life-blood of Victorian Birmingham and the Black Country. They have featured in Peaky Blinders as well. | Asmita Sarkar