- Population:
- 130,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
Seychelles was uninhabited until European explorers arrived in the 16th century. It became a British colony and gained independence in 1976. The country has since developed a strong economy based on tourism, fishing, and financial services.
Seychelles, officially the Republic of Seychelles, is an archipelago and country in the Indian Ocean, consisting of 115 islands. It lies northeast of Madagascar and about 1,600 kilometers east of mainland Africa. Covering a total area of 459 square kilometers, it has a population of approximately 98,462 as of 2023, making it the smallest population of any African country. The capital and largest city is Victoria. The official languages are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. Seychelles operates as a unitary presidential republic. The economy is primarily based on tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. Seychelles is known for its stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and unique biodiversity, with numerous endemic species. The country is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the Commonwealth of Nations.