Sierra Leone: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a country on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, between Guinea and Liberia. It has mountains, rainforests and long sandy beaches. Its name means 'Lion Mountains'.

About Freetown

Freetown lies on a mountainous peninsula on the Atlantic coast, beside one of the world's largest natural harbours. It was founded in 1792 as a settlement for freed people.

Fun facts about Sierra Leone

1. Sierra Leone's name means 'Lion Mountains', a name given by Portuguese explorers to the hills near Freetown.
2. Freetown sits beside one of the largest natural harbours in the world.
3. Krio, a language that mixes English with several African languages, is the most widely spoken language in Sierra Leone.
4. Fourah Bay College in Freetown, founded in 1827, is one of the oldest Western-style universities in West Africa.
5. In 2025, the Gola-Tiwai rainforest complex became Sierra Leone's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Mount Bintumani, about 1,948 metres tall, is the highest point in Sierra Leone.