On-Line Atlas of the San Francisco Bay Area

Focus: San Francisco

The "city by the bay" has a well-deserved reputation as one of the world's most interesting cities. San Francisco traces its roots back to 1776, when a Spanish presidio and mission were founded on a site (still used by the military) that overlooks the entrance to the bay. Originally called "Yerba Buena" by the Spanish, San Francisco received its present name when the territory was annexed by the US in 1845.  San Francisco developed rapidly as a port and economic engine for the west coast following the discovery of gold in California in 1848. Today, San Francisco is that cultural and economic centre of northern California.

View of Downtown San Francisco and the Bay Bridge

The map below shows some of the major communities and transport links in the area. Follow the links below the overview map for more information about the city and county of San Francisco.

Overview: San Francisco City and County