THE ten smallest capitals in the world are little-known gems, each with its own unique charm. Here is a list of these urban pearls :
Melekeok, Palau – With an area of only 0.45 km², this capital is one of the smallest in the world, located on the west coast of the island of Babeldaob.
Funafuti, Tuvalu – Funafuti Atoll, covering just 2.4 km², is home to the capital of this small Pacific island state.
Valletta, Malta – Malta, a Mediterranean island, hosts its capital on an area of barely 0.8 km², offering remarkable Baroque architecture.
San Marino, San Marino – This Italian microstate houses its capital on an area of approximately 7.1 km², with its picturesque alleys and panoramic views.
Nicosia, Cyprus – Shared between Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the southern part hosts the capital on an area of approximately 9 km².
Majuro, Marshall Islands – This atoll, at 9.7 km², is home to the capital of this Pacific island nation.
Andorra la Vella, Andorra – The principality of Andorra, nestled in the Pyrenees, houses its capital on an area of 12 km².
Vaduz, Liechtenstein – Situated in an Alpine valley, Vaduz, capital of Liechtenstein, covers approximately 17 km².
Monaco-Ville, Monaco – This Mediterranean city-state is the capital of Monaco, covering 0.2 km², making it the smallest capital in the world.
Each of these capitals, although small in size, offers an impressive cultural and historical wealth. From the medieval old town of Valletta to the modern skyscrapers of Ngerulmud, these cities demonstrate that greatness is not necessarily measured in area, but in heritage and character.
