The smallest states by territory. Which countries are the smallest in terms of population?

Today there are about 250 recognized independent states. Among them there are both giant states, such as Russia, the USA and Canada, and very small countries, comparable in area to major cities. Despite their “miniature” nature, in some cases they play a huge role in the world political arena.

You'll like it: according to various criteria.

Area: 0.004 km²
Population: 1 person
Capital: Sealand

In 1967, the virtual state “Principality of Sealand” appeared, with a population of 1 person and an area of 0.004 square meters. km². Unofficially, Sealand is the most small state in the world in terms of area and population, located above the territory of the offshore platform in the North Sea and claiming sovereignty. The only inhabitant of the platform, who is also the ruler, is Prince Michael I Bates.

Area: 344 km²
Population: 107,317 people.
Capital: St. George's

Grenada – Island state with a constitutional monarchy. This wonderful land is located in the Caribbean Sea, and it was discovered by Columbus back in the 14th century. Agriculture specializes in growing vegetables and fruits, which are subsequently exported. Since Grenada is located in an offshore zone, its treasury is replenished with more than $7 million annually through offshore financial services.

Area: 298 km²
Population: 427,756 people
Capital: Male

Maldives are rightfully considered one of the best tourist resorts in the world. It has it all: clear turquoise waters Indian Ocean, virgin nature, rich in a wide variety of plant and animal species, mysterious underwater caves and much more. The tourism sector annually brings about 30 percent of revenue to the state budget of the Maldives. Interesting fact: The Republic of Maldives consists of more than 1,100 islands.

Area: 261 km²
Population: 54,821 people
Capital: Basseterre

This country is located on two islands of the same name and has a federal government system. Agriculture here is very poorly developed (mainly sugar cane is grown), despite the favorable climate. But the tourism sector is developed. Travelers are attracted by the diversity of flora and fauna, as well as the mild tropical climate. It is worth noting that Pavel Durov (the creator of VKontakte) himself has citizenship of this country.

Area: 181 km²
Population: 53,263 people.
Capital: Majuro

The Marshall Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean, are distinguished by their specific natural conditions. The fact is that American nuclear tests 1954 greatly changed the biological environment of this country, so the species of plants and animals that are characteristic of such an area are almost never found there. Therefore, others were brought out there. The islands have very underdeveloped infrastructure, so many economic areas are in a development phase.

Area: 160 km²
Population: 37,468 people.
Capital: Vaduz

Despite its small area, Liechtenstein is one of the most beautiful and richest countries in the world. The country borders Austria and Switzerland and is located in Alpine mountains, which provides it with high tourist attractiveness. Liechtenstein is a global financial center with a highly developed banking system. It is also worth noting that the state ranks second in the world in terms of GDP, right after Qatar.

Area: 61 km²
Population: 33,029 people
Capital: San Marino

This small country is located on the mountain slope of Monte Titano and borders Italy on all sides. San Marino is the most ancient state Western Europe, it was formed back in the 3rd century. Many attractions, including Monte Titano itself, are included in the list of sites natural heritage UNESCO.

Area: 26 km²
Population: 9,876 people
Capital: Funafuti

Tuvalu is considered one of the poorest countries in the world, which, in fact, is understandable. The country has an extremely unfavorable climate - here heavy rains give way to droughts. As a result, the nature of Tuvalu is very poor, which affected the development of agriculture.

Area: 21 km²
Population: 10,084 people
Capital: no

The Pacific nation of Nauru is unique in many ways. This is the only country without a capital. It is the smallest republic in the world, and the smallest state, if you do not take into account European continent. Nauru's budget is replenished mainly by the extraction of phosphates, which, in turn, cause great damage to the island's ecosystem, making the development of agriculture and tourism almost impossible.

Area: 2.02 km²
Population: 37,863 people
Capital: Monaco

Of course, everyone has heard about the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the famous casino in Monte Carlo. Yes, all this is located in this small state on the border with France. It is logical that tourism is one of the country's main sources of income. This is also where they keep their savings. richest people peace, because in Monaco there is a guarantee of bank secrecy.

1. Vatican

Area: 0.44 km²
Population: 1,000 people
Capital: Vatican

The smallest state in the world, paradoxically, is the most powerful, or at least “one of...”. The Vatican is the residence of the Pope, and the country's citizens are called subjects of the Holy See. The Vatican has great influence in the military-political sphere, often calling on warring countries to make peace.

Size doesn't matter - that's what needs to be said at the end of this article. Even the smallest country, although it will not amaze the imagination with its army of thousands, million-plus cities and megalopolises, will definitely be remembered for its unique nature, sights and unique history.

“I and the World” welcomes everyone who is now reading this article. Today we would like to present you with a ranking of small countries. And what is the smallest state in the world, you will find out by reading this article to the end.

When we hear about a country, for example, in the news, we imagine a large territory with a population of several million people. But there are countries that can be compared in area to one modern metropolis.

And let's start with San Marino - 61 sq. km

We can say that this is a state within a state. San Marino is surrounded by the lands of Italy in a circle and is considered the oldest in Europe. It is noteworthy that it is located on one of the slopes of Mount Titan.

According to legend, the founder of San Marino is considered to be a stonecutter named Marinus, who made the main castle of the future country in the rock, where he created his community. Subsequently, the stonemason was canonized as a Christian saint.

Only 30,000 people live here. But there is almost no unemployment, and the GDP per capita is one of the highest, thanks to the tourism business.

In 4th place is Tuvalu - 26 square meters. km

This Pacific territory in Polynesia consists of nine small coral islets. The population is about 11,000 people.

In such a small area there are only 8 km of roads, so it is difficult to get to different corners Countries and tourists rarely visit these islands, although the places here are very beautiful. The biggest problem is the gradual flooding of the territory, i.e. The islands are slowly sinking.

The Tuvalu Islands were discovered by the British Alvaro Mendaña de Neira in 1568 and were a British colony for a long time until they gained independence in the mid-20th century. The capital of the country is a city with a name similar to candy - Funafuti.

Interestingly, the lands often changed their names. The discoverer named them the Lagoon Islands, then the archipelago was called the Ellis Islands and now this is the state of Tuvalu, which means “eight standing together.”

3rd place – Nauru – 21 sq. km

Nauru is also an island state, but even smaller in area than Tuvalu and also in the Pacific Ocean. Although the names are quite similar, right? It is the smallest of the island states.

Just over 10,000 people live here. But they do not have an official capital.

Recently, the country's economy has been suffering greatly due to the depletion of phosphate mines.

There was nothing left to mine, so unemployment reached 90%. Maybe that's why there are too many obese people here - 97% of men and 93% of women - because there is nothing better to do? Yes, diabetes mellitus is also added to this problem.

2nd place – Principality of Monaco – 2.02 sq. km

The territory is located next to France on the coast Mediterranean Sea. Warm climate and Beautiful places attract many travelers. About 40,000 people live here.

Many people know this state as the most gambling one, thanks to the famous casinos in the city of Monte Carlo.

The country is also known for hosting the Formula 1 championship, the Monaco Grand Prix, every year.

Profit to the treasury comes from the tourism business and the sale of real estate.

The Vatican closes the top five with 0.44 sq. km – 1st place

Which independent state in the world is the smallest? This is the Vatican, and it is located not only on the territory of another state, but also in the center of another city -.

The Vatican is a religious center catholic church. Therefore, here is the richest and largest church in the world - St. Peter's Basilica.

The Vatican houses very valuable works of the Renaissance. How does this small state live? Voluntary contributions from a huge number of Catholics living around the world - more than 1 billion people. There are not yet most of profits: income from the sale of souvenirs and entrance tickets to the Vatican Museums.

The Pope is recognized as head for life.

Basically, the population (about 840 people) is the clergy, and those who serve this entire holy center (janitors, gardeners and others) are the population of Italy.

It has its own army - the ancient Swiss Guard.

I would like to tell you about another interesting state in South America -Saint Kitts and Nevis

Many wealthy people are trying to obtain citizenship here. And do this not in order to live there, but to travel freely around the world and actively engage in business. The possibilities of this country’s passport are simply golden - its presence allows you to visit up to 130 countries of the world, and low taxes allow you to successfully conduct business.

On an area of 260 sq. km perfectly live 50,000 people. But he still rules the country British Queen, because The territory is part of the British Commonwealth. Well developed here travel business, there is still income from the import of sugar cane, coffee, and cotton.

Do you want to get citizenship here? Then you have two options:

Make a charitable contribution of US$250-350,000 towards the development of the country's sugar industry.
Buy a property for $400,000.

And what’s interesting is that you don’t need to go to St. Kitts and Nevis to get a passport; it will be given to you in your country without the cost of a flight.

And one more interesting fact: Many consider it a city or a small state. But in reality this is not the case, since the territory of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg occupies 2,500 square meters. km, and in terms of population - 576,000 people.

The duchy is one of the richest in the world, with high level life. People from different countries They keep their savings here thanks to 1000 investment funds and banks, of which there are more than 200.

We described amazing countries, so small, but so interesting and unusual. With its own special history and modern life. If you find the information interesting, share this article with your friends. Travel the world and all the best to you!

The smallest countries in the world 🗺

You and I live in huge countries. But there are also small countries on earth. Moreover, although they are small in size, some of them are quite significant and authoritative.

Of the 10 smallest countries, two are located in the Caribbean, four are in Europe, one is in Asia and three are in Oceania. There are four more countries on the continent, 3 of which do not even have access to the sea, and six tiny countries are located on islands. For such countries, livelihoods are vital.

Country Vatican

The smallest state is with an area of 0.44 square kilometers, located inside the territory of Rome. The Vatican is a state associated with Italy. Population - 836 people. The strongest apparatus of the entire Roman Catholic Church works for the Vatican with big amount followers all over the world. He receives all his finances from donations from Catholics on a voluntary basis. He also sells stamps, books and part of the money comes from tourists. There is no tax in the Vatican.

Country Monaco

The second smallest country is considered to be with an area of 1.96 km². Moreover, there are 23,660 inhabitants per square kilometer. The country is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and has about 30 thousand inhabitants. The main income for residents comes from tourism. Monaco is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Country Nauru

Nauru- a state located on coral island in the western part Pacific Ocean with an area of 21 km². Population - 9,322 people. Nauru is the world's smallest independent republic, the smallest island state, the smallest state in Oceania, the smallest state outside Europe, and the world's only republic without an official capital. The state of Nauru does not have an army.

Country Tuvalu

A Pacific country located on 5 atolls and 4 islands. total area- 26 km². Population - 10,544 people. Due to lack natural resources Tuvalu has to live off the help of other countries. This country is one of the poorest countries in the world and would have been even poorer if the country’s leadership had not thought of putting the national domain zone .tv up for auction and a buyer was quickly found, because zone.tv is a tasty morsel for television companies and video sites. Now Tuvalu receives $1 million every quarter in exchange for the right to use the domain zone.tv

Country San Marino

A state surrounded on all sides by Italy. Its area is 61 km², population - 32,075 people. Most of the population is engaged in agriculture, growing grapes, fruits, corn and livestock. But the main source of income is tourism. San Marino is one of the richest countries in the world, its income exceeds its expenses.

Country Liechtenstein

A state in Central Europe associated with Switzerland. Area - 160.4 km², population - 35,870 people. has no access to the sea. One of the richest countries in the world, the main income comes from a large flow of tourists.

Pacific state associated with the United States. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is located on 29 atolls and 5 islands, with a total area of 181 km² and a population of 68,000 people.

- an archipelago consisting of 15 islands. The State of the Cook Islands is in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Area - 236 km², population - 19,569 people, of which almost 80% are on the island of Rarotonga. The basis of the economy is tourism.

State in the eastern part Caribbean Sea, between northern and South America. Consists of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis, with a total area of 261 square meters. km. These were the first islands settled by Europeans. The main source of income is, of course, tourism, but there are also developed Agriculture and offshore banking.

Country Maldives

The island country is located in the Indian Ocean and is the smallest Asian country in terms of area. Includes approximately 1,190 coral islands with a total area of 298 square meters. km, population 396 thousand. Two thirds of the population lives in the country's capital, Male. Previously, the country developed thanks to the export of dried tuna, cowrie shellfish and coconut ropes, now the main income comes from tourism.

Sealand State

All these countries are recognized by the international community, but there is a state that, in terms of area and population, can rightfully be considered the smallest in the world. This state is ( Sealand), with an area of 500 square meters. It is a concrete platform with dimensions of 30 by 10 meters. The platform is located outside the three-mile zone in the North Sea, which means it is in neutral waters.

Roy Bates took advantage of this in the 70s and officially occupied this area. Roy proclaimed himself king, his wife queen, and the state proclaimed a monarchy and settled down with all his loyal subjects in his state. But he did not think to stop there; in 1975, Roy issued a constitution and a national currency.

The platform was originally created during the Second World War as a base for the British Army, but was subsequently abandoned, which was used by British Army Major Roy Bates to host a pirate radio station and, to avoid trial, officially declared the independence of Sealand.

2 years later, Britain tried to occupy the state, but Roy did several warning shots to the air. A lawsuit was brought against Roy, as an English citizen. But justice triumphed, the court delivered a historically important verdict, it recognized that the case was outside the jurisdiction of Great Britain. In 2002, the population of Sealand was 27 people. However, only a guard permanently lives on the territory of Sealand.

Some countries in the world are quite small in size and occupy less area than megacities. But this does not prevent them from playing a significant role in the world. For example, the Vatican is considered a religious center, Monaco is recognized as a place of luxury, and Liechtenstein has gained fame as a prosperous country. The following are smallest countries in the world by area - top 10 rating.

10. Grenada (334 km²)

The list of the smallest countries in the world opens with Grenada, with an area of 334 sq. km and a population of about 100 thousand inhabitants. This volcanic island in the Caribbean was discovered by Columbus. The territory was first settled by French colonists, then it was transferred to Great Britain according to the Treaty of Versailles. The spirit of France is felt in the country today – in architecture, art and even sports. Locals love to play cricket. Tropical evergreen forests, hills, mountains, beaches - this place could be called paradise, if not for hurricanes. Cocoa, bananas, citrus fruits, cloves and vanilla are grown on the fertile volcanic soils. Grenada is also called the “Spice Island” for its nutmeg production.

9. Malta (316 km²)

One of the smallest countries in Europe by area is Malta (316 sq. km). It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its leisurely life. The state unites six islands. Of the 360 thousand people, 80% live in Malta, and in Gozo local residents buy summer houses. Despite its modest size, Malta is visited by more than a million tourists a year. Attracted by ancient temples, nature, rocky and sandy beaches, crystal clear water and rich undersea world. The Maltese are a cheerful people. Holidays, festivals, theatrical performances and fireworks - there is a lot of entertainment. Crime on the island is almost zero.

8. Maldives (300 km²)

The Maldives also occupy a modest territory - 300 square meters. kilometers. This is the smallest country in Asia - both in terms of territory and population (about 393 thousand). The state is one of the most dispersed in the world, as it consists of thousands of coral islands. Of these, only 200 are inhabited, and a hundred were given to tourists. They move between the islands by boats and local dhonis. There is one city - the capital Male, with an area of less than three square meters. kilometers. There is not even room for an airport - planes arrive at neighboring island. Until recently, the residents of the Maldives were mainly engaged in fishing, but today their source of income is serving tourists. The island economy is aimed at it. Guests love it here, because 80% of the territory is golden beaches. Entertainment includes scuba diving and attractions. Nightlife almost no, because Republic of Maldives belongs to Muslim countries.

7. Saint Kitts and Nevis (269 km²)

Saint Kitts and Nevis - small gState in the eastern Caribbean Sea, with an area of 269 square meters. kilometers. It consists of two islands, Nevis and St. Kitts. Columbus discovered them, and two centuries later the British settled in the territory. The colonies developed quickly thanks to the export of sugar. Since the 90s, the federation has gained independence. Today, 50 thousand people call Saint Kitts and Nevis home, about 86% are of African descent. Tropical thickets, mountains and meadows, butterflies and exotic birds, coral reefs and a strip of lagoons - the local nature enchants. This gives a large influx of tourists, on whose services the country’s economy is built. Another area of earning money is agriculture. Residents raise goats and sheep, grow pineapples and coffee trees. The islands are suitable for life: there is a narrow-gauge road along the coast, car roads, ports and two airports.

6. Liechtenstein (160 km²)

Liechtenstein - European dwarf state, with an area of only 160 sq. km. Moreover, mountains occupy most of the country's area. There are very few minerals - only limestone, white clay and alabaster. The country makes money from the manufacturing industry, producing canned food and wine. Liechtenstein is prosperous and has a high standard of living. The residents are also lucky with nature: alpine meadows, Mountain peaks, forests. The climate is mild and pleasant, because the mountain ranges protect from evil winds. Liechtenstein is known for its abandonment of armed forces - the state has not had an army since the 19th century. And the police force is small - 120 employees.

5. San Marino (61 km²)

San Marino is the oldest state in Europe. The dwarf country is called the “Land of Freedom”. San Marino is surrounded by Italy. Maybe that's why the country is crowded with tourists during the summer months. Moreover, thanks to reduced taxes, goods here are much cheaper than in Italy. Some residents live in Italian towns and commute to work in San Marino by car. The number of inhabitants in the country is about 30 thousand people, and it is difficult to obtain a residence permit. You need to live in the territory for 30 years or be married to a local resident for 15 years. San Marino is ruled not by one person, but by two – captains-regents. Almost the entire territory of the country (80%) is occupied by mountains.

4. Tuvalu (26 km²)

The tiny state of Tuvalu in Polynesia could not keep up with its “colleagues”. The country is considered one of the poorest. Even the nature here is sparse, consisting mainly of imported plants and animals. Plants include palm trees, bananas, and breadfruit. The weather here is not for everyone: long droughts give way to the rainy season. Sometimes destructive cyclones pass through Tuvalu. Because of one of them, houses were completely torn apart and 90% of trees were knocked down. Many benefits of civilization are still inaccessible to local residents - their way of life has hardly changed over many centuries.

3. Nauru (21 km²)

The island dwarf state of Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Its outline resembles a rectangle. Nauru is unique in that it does not have an official capital. There are no rivers on the island, and therefore one of the main problems of local residents is water shortage. This is reflected in the flora and fauna - it is sparse, just like in Tuvalu. Nauru's treasury was replenished quickly when phosphate rocks were mined. The country was considered one of the richest in the world, but in the 90s reserves began to decline. The well-being of the population fell. Phosphorite mining has caused damage to the island. Due to the severe pollution of Nauru, tourism is not developed.

2. Monaco (2.02 km²)

Monaco is one of the smallest countries in Europe, with an area of only 2.02 sq. km. The entire principality can be walked on foot in an hour. Some tourists even have a photograph where the country fits into one picture. Despite its miniature size, the state managed to announce itself to the world. The city of Monte Carlo and its legendary casino have been heard about in many countries. Formula 1 competitions are held in Monaco. The Principality neighbors France. The country makes money from tourists, and therefore carefully monitors its image. Monaco has been called "Europe's sanctuary for the rich." Blooming azaleas and rhododendrons, a princely court and temples, narrow streets and Mediterranean architecture, modern luxury real estate - walking around the country is a pleasure. The most luxurious yachts in the world are parked in the main bay of Monaco.

1. Vatican (0.44 km²)

The Vatican is rightfully recognized as the smallest state in the world. The country, with an area of only 0.44 sq. km., is located inside Rome and is associated with Italy. In ancient times, the area was not inhabited - it was considered holy. In 326, a basilica was created, and the territory began to be developed. The Vatican is ruled by the Holy See. The main one is the Pope, who is elected for life. There is a government funding for donations from Catholics around the world and income from tourism (souvenirs, museum admission fees, sales of stamps and coins). Almost all citizens of the Vatican are ministers of the Catholic Church.

This is a list of the 15 smallest countries in the world. Countries that can be compared in size to small town. You can walk from end to end of almost every one of these countries in less than a day.

The smallest state on earth. The Vatican is located on the territory Eternal City Rome, on the hill of Monte Vaticano and has a state border length of only 3.2 km. In a few hours you can easily walk around the entire country. According to official data, the population of the Vatican is just over 800 people. Another 3,000 people are not citizens of the country, but come here to work every day.

The Vatican is one of the largest museums under open air. Here is a real treasury of works of art and architectural monuments, relics of Christianity and unique creations of great masters. A huge number of believers and tourists visit the Vatican territory every day.

The second place in the list of micro states is occupied by the Principality of Monaco. Its territory is 1.95 square meters. km. The length of the state border with France is 4.4 km. The population density in Monaco, unlike the Vatican, is very high - the country is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Local residents are mainly engaged in serving tourists, who are attracted here by magnificent beaches and a huge number of gaming establishments.

The Republic of Nauru is a dwarf state on the coral island of the same name in the western Pacific Ocean with an area of 21.3 km² and a population of 12 thousand people. Nauru is the smallest independent republic on Earth, the smallest island state, the smallest state outside Europe and the only republic in the world without an official capital.

Tuvalu is a dwarf Pacific state in Polynesia. The length of the coastal strip is 21 km. The state is located on 5 atolls and 4 islands of the Tuvalu archipelago. The total land area is 26 km². The country's population is 14 thousand people. The islands gained independence in 1978 (before that the archipelago was a British colony).

The name of the country translated from the Tuvaluan language means “eight standing together” (meaning eight traditionally inhabited islands Tuvalu. The main problem of the islands is the rising level of the world's oceans, which threatens to flood many of the islands, most of which are located no higher than 5 meters above sea level. The country lives on the help of other countries, because... does not have its own natural resources.

5. San Marino

A European state surrounded on all sides by the territory of Italy. The name comes from the name of the Christian saint who founded the state. The country claims to be the oldest state in Europe. The area of the state is 60.57 km². Almost 80% of the country's territory is occupied by mountains and rock formations. Population: 33 thousand people. San Marino is one of the few modern countries, with positive economic indicators. State revenues exceed expenses and the country has no external debt.

Another dwarf European state. The country's area is 160 km². The name of the country comes from the ruling dynasty of Liechtenstein. The Principality is located in the spurs of the Alps, the most high point- Mount Grauspitz (2599 m). One of the largest rivers in Western Europe, the Rhine, flows through the western part of the country. The country's population is 38 thousand people.

Despite its size, Liechtenstein is a prosperous industrial country with a developed banking system. In addition, the Principality of Liechtenstein is included in the black list of “tax havens” - states where residents of other countries avoid taxation.

The Marshall Islands are a Pacific nation in Micronesia. The state is located on 29 atolls and 5 islands of the Marshall Islands archipelago. The length of the coastal strip is 370.4 km. The total land area is 181.3 km² and 11,673 km² are occupied by lagoons. The population of the Marshall Islands is 65 thousand people.

The maximum height above sea level is 10 meters. In the event of a significant rise in sea levels or global climate change, serious environmental consequences are inevitable on individual islands.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands does not have a permanent armed force. According to the agreement, the United States bears responsibility for the security and defense of the country. They have a responsibility to protect the Republic of the Marshall Islands and its citizens from outside attacks and threats.

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is a state in the eastern Caribbean Sea, consisting of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis. Both islands are of volcanic origin and mountainous. The area of the country is 261 km². Population - 53 thousand people. The total length of the coastline is 135 km.

The islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, but the Spaniards did not colonize them. The struggle for possession of the islands was fought for a long time by Great Britain and France. In 1983, the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis gained independence.

The islands have rich tropical vegetation. Mountainous areas are covered with dense tropical forests and orchards. Lianas, mangoes, breadfruit and cinnamon trees, tamarind, avocados, bananas, and papaya grow here. At the tops of the mountains, forests give way to meadows with equally abundant vegetation. The forests are home to numerous tropical birds and butterflies, and there are monkeys. Many seabirds, including pelicans, nest on the coast. The waters abound with fish.

The Republic of Maldives, or simply the Maldives, is a state in South Asia, located on a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south of India. The state is a chain of 20 atolls consisting of 1192 coral islets. Population - about 330 thousand people. The total area is 90 thousand km², the land area is 298 km². The capital Male - the only city and port of the archipelago - is located on the atoll of the same name and is the smallest capital in the world. However, Male is home to a third of the country's total population.

The basis of the economy is serving tourists. Hot but comfortable weather all year round (air temperature from 24 to 30°) has made the Maldives a place of pilgrimage for tourists from all over the world. Fishing comes in second place.

The Republic of Malta is an island state in the Mediterranean Sea. The country consists of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino and many small and uninhabited ones. The territory of the state is 316 km². The population of Malta is 420 thousand people. The country bears the title of the least populated state in the European Union.

The main industry of Malta's economy is tourism. Most of the cultural and historical attractions are associated with the Knights of the Johannite Order (Order of Malta). Due to its wide variety of urban and natural landscapes, Malta is a popular location for feature film shoots. Malta is the only country in Europe that does not have rivers, lakes or its own sources of fresh water.

Grenada is an island state in the southeast Caribbean Sea, occupies the island of Grenada and southern part islands of the Grenadines. Total area - 344 sq. km. Population: 110 thousand people.

The island of Grenada is of volcanic origin. In the center of the island there is a forested mountain range, overlooked by Mount St. Catherine (840 m), the highest point in the country. There are few rivers on the island, but there are many streams and springs. Grenada's economy is based on tourism as well as offshore financial businesses.

The song “Grenada”, written by M. Svetlov in 1926, as it turned out, has nothing to do with the state of Grenada.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an independent state in the Caribbean. The territory consists of the island of Saint Vincent and 32 small islands of the Grenadines group. Area - 389 km². Population - 105 thousand people.

On the island of St. Vincent there is active volcano Soufriere. During our era alone, it has erupted at least 160 times. The last eruption was in 1979. The island's beaches are covered with black volcanic sand; the exception is the white sandy beaches on the southern tip of the island.

Barbados is a small state in the West Indies, located on the island of the same name, which is shaped like a pear. The island has an area of 431 km² and is mostly flat with small hills in the middle. Population: 290 thousand people. Barbados is one of the leading developing countries in terms of living standards and literacy.

The basis of the economy is tourism. Many historical monuments, are associated with the rise of piracy in the Caribbean. Barbados is also famous for the production of the famous pirate rum. Approximately every 3 years the island finds itself in the hurricane zone and suffers greatly from the elements.

Antigua and Barbuda is a country in the West Indies located on three islands- Antigua, Barbuda and Redonda. The total territory is 442 km². Population 90 thousand people.

The main source of income is tourism. Antigua and Barbuda is ready to welcome tourists 365 days a year. Coastline Antigua forms many bays (essentially relict volcanic craters) and an extended strip of first-class beaches (it is believed that there are exactly 365 of them on the islands). There are both beaches with developed infrastructure and completely wild, secluded corners.

The Republic of Seychelles is an island state in East Africa. Located in the western Indian Ocean, slightly south of the equator. The republic includes 115 islands, only 33 of them are inhabited. The islands cover an area of 455 square kilometers. The country's population is about 90 thousand people.

Main source of income Seychelles For a long time there was an export of cinnamon, coconut and vanilla. Since 1976, when Great Britain granted independence to the Seychelles, tourism has become the main source of income (up to 75% of foreign exchange earnings).

The fruit of the Seychelles palm, which grows only in the Seychelles, weighs 20 kg and is considered the largest fruit in the plant world.