Truro is Cornwall's administrative capital and enjoys a thriving community based on commerce and tourism. Truro still thrives as a port, handling more goods than any other in the county.

The name Truro is believed to have come from Tri-veru, meaning three rivers, after the Kenwyn, the Allen and the Tinney. Together these form the Truro River which flows into the Carrick Roads and the River Fal.

The rivers are mostly hidden under the streets, but glimpses of the Allen can be spotted behind the Cathedral and St Mary's Street, while the Kenwyn runs under Victoria Square and Lemon Quay.

The river valleys form a fairly steep-sided bowl surrounding Truro. Floods were commonplace during the early years, with the most recent taking place in 1988. People were seen taking to small boats to access shops and businesses in Victoria Square.

Since then, flood defences have been constructed around the city, including a dam at New Mill on the River Kenwyn and a tidal barrier on the Truro River near Boscawen Park.