Solomon Islands: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands is a country of six main islands and hundreds of smaller ones in the southwest Pacific, east of Papua New Guinea. The islands are covered in rainforest, with volcanoes, lagoons and coral reefs. Its people speak about 70 languages and use Pijin to talk between communities.

About Honiara

Honiara is on the north coast of Guadalcanal, the country's largest island. It is the main port and has a busy central market where traditional shell money can be found.

Fun facts about Solomon Islands

1. Rennell Island is the largest raised coral atoll in the world, and its eastern part is a UNESCO site.
2. Lake Tegano on Rennell Island is the largest lake in the Pacific islands.
3. Traditional shell money, made mainly in Langa Langa Lagoon on Malaita, is still used for ceremonies and trade.
4. About 70 local languages are spoken, and most people also speak Pijin, an English-based creole.
5. The islands were named after the wealthy biblical King Solomon following a Spanish voyage in 1568.
6. The country is made up of nearly 1,000 islands, including six main ones.