Seychelles

This tropical archipelago comprises 115 granite and coral islands spanning 1.4 million square kilometers of ocean between Madagascar and mainland Africa. Inner islands feature mountainous granite formations covered with rainforest, while outer islands consist of flat coral atolls surrounded by lagoons and barrier reefs.

Arab traders knew of these uninhabited islands before Portuguese explorers arrived in the 16th century. France claimed them in 1756, establishing plantations worked by enslaved people from Africa and Madagascar until Britain took control in 1814 following Napoleonic Wars. Independence came in 1976, followed by a socialist one-party system until multiparty democracy returned in 1993.

The population blends African, European, and Asian influences visible in daily life, festivals, and artistic expressions. This multicultural fusion shapes the nation's identity through music genres like moutya and sega, local cuisine featuring curry dishes, and a predominantly Catholic faith mixed with traditional beliefs.

International flights arrive at Mahe International Airport, with ferry services and domestic flights connecting inhabited islands. The currency is the Seychellois rupee, exchangeable at banks in Victoria and tourist areas. April through May and October through November offer calm seas and moderate temperatures between monsoon seasons, while July and August bring cooler southeast trade winds.

The Vallee de Mai on Praslin Island protects ancient Coco de Mer palms producing seeds that can reach 25 kilograms (55 pounds), the heaviest in the plant kingdom. Female palms begin bearing fruit only after 25 years, and seeds require seven years to mature on the tree before falling.

Inception: June 29, 1976

Capital city: Victoria

Part of: East Africa

Shares border with: France, Comoros, Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritius

Website: http://egov.sc

GPS coordinates: -4.65750,55.45401

Latest update: November 30, 2025 16:19