Belize is a small Central American country on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. It is the only country in Central America where English is the official language. Belize is renowned for its spectacular barrier reef, ancient Maya ruins, and rich tropical biodiversity.
- Capital
- Belmopan
- Continent
- Americas
- Region
- Central America
- Area
- 22,966 km²
- Coordinates
- 17.25° N, 88.75° W
Country facts
- Belize is home to the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere.
- The country gained independence from Britain on 21 September 1981.
- Belize has one of the highest concentrations of Maya archaeological sites in the world, including Caracol and Xunantunich.
- The national animal of Belize is the Baird's tapir, the largest land mammal in Central America.
- Belizean culture is a vibrant mix of Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, and other influences.
Capital facts
- Belmopan became the capital in 1970 after Hurricane Hattie devastated the former capital, Belize City, in 1961.
- It is one of the smallest capital cities in the world by population.
- The city was purpose-built inland to protect the government from future hurricane damage.
- Belmopan's government buildings were designed with architectural inspiration from ancient Maya structures.
- The National Assembly building sits at the heart of the city and serves as the seat of Belizean government.