Palau: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts
The capital of Palau is Ngerulmud. In 2006 government offices moved from Koror to Ngerulmud, in Melekeok State on Babeldaob Island.
About Palau
Palau is a country of about 340 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, east of the Philippines. It has jungle-covered volcanic islands and hundreds of mushroom-shaped limestone islands rising from turquoise lagoons. It is famous for its coral reefs, sea life and care for the ocean.
About Ngerulmud
Ngerulmud is a small government centre in Melekeok State on Babeldaob, the largest island. Its large capitol building stands on a hill, while the biggest town, Koror, lies to the south.
Fun facts about Palau
- The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon has 445 limestone islands and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- In Jellyfish Lake, snorkellers can swim among golden jellyfish whose stings are too weak to harm people.
- In 2009 Palau created the world's first shark sanctuary.
- Visitors to Palau sign the Palau Pledge, stamped in their passport, promising to protect its nature.
- Palau's flag shows a golden full moon placed slightly off-centre on a light blue background.
- The Rock Islands contain 52 marine lakes, more than any other site in the world, according to UNESCO.
