Micronesia: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Micronesia

Micronesia, officially the Federated States of Micronesia, is a country of about 600 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, north of the equator. Its four states, Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae, have green volcanic islands, mangroves and coral atolls. It is known for ancient stone ruins, giant stone money and amazing diving.

About Palikir

Palikir is a small, purpose-built capital on the island of Pohnpei, surrounded by thick green forest. It became the national capital in 1989 and is one of the rainiest capital cities in the world.

Fun facts about Micronesia

1. The country has four states, Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae, shown by four white stars on its flag.
2. On Yap, huge stone discs more than 3 metres wide were traditionally used as money.
3. Nan Madol, a UNESCO site off Pohnpei, is an ancient city of stone built on more than 100 small islets.
4. The stone walls of Nan Madol were built between about 1200 and 1500 using basalt and coral boulders.
5. The mountains of Pohnpei are among the rainiest places on Earth.
6. The name Micronesia comes from Greek words meaning 'small islands'.