Etymology. Calgary was named after Calgary on the Isle of Mull, Scotland, United Kingdom. In turn, the name originates from a compound of kald and gart, similar Old Norse words, meaning "cold" and "garden", likely used when named by the Vikings who inhabited the Inner Hebrides.

Why is Calgary important to Canada?

It is the financial centre of western Canada, based on its key role in the development of the region's oil and gas industry. With its panoramic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and its historic association with cattle ranching and oil exploration, Calgary is one of Canada's most identifiable cities.

What is special about Calgary?

Calgarians enjoy more days of sunshine than any other major Canadian city - 333 days per year in fact! Calgary is home to more than 1.4 million people. ... Calgary is the third most diverse major city in Canada with more than 120 languages spoken in the city. Calgary is 848 square kilometres in size, or 327 square miles.