Originally established in 1965 as a single local government area encompassing the county of London and the surrounding suburbs, Greater London now includes 32 boroughs (20 of them in the former county area, known as Inner London), the City of London, and the outer suburban areas of Greater London.
The London Boroughs are responsible for most local government services, such as education, social care, and waste management, while the Greater London Authority (GLA), headed by the Mayor of London, oversees strategic planning and transportation for the entire region. The GLA also has a number of other responsibilities, including economic development, housing, the environment, and public health.
Greater London is home to several major attractions and landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London, as well as a rich variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters. It is also a major business and financial center, and home to several universities and other educational institutions.