Somalia, Federal republic in East Africa
Description
Somalia is a federal republic in East Africa with a coastline of 3,333 kilometers along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, the longest continuous shore on the African mainland. The terrain includes southern plains with sandy soil and northern rocky highlands that rise toward the interior.
History
Ancient traders from this region conducted commerce with Egypt during the second millennium before Christ, transporting frankincense and myrrh across the sea. Several Islamic sultanates emerged along the coast from the 10th century onward and controlled trade between the Red Sea and Indian Ocean.
Culture
Most people speak Somali, a language with flowing vowels and a rich tradition of oral poetry that can be heard daily in gatherings and radio broadcasts. Tea is prepared everywhere following local custom with spices and served in small glasses, accompanied by conversation and hospitality.
Practical
Two rivers, the Jubba and Shabeelle, flow from Ethiopian highlands and provide water for farming in the southern fertile plains. Coastal areas remain warm throughout the year, while monsoon seasons affect travel conditions across the territory.
Did you know?
The northeastern area contains limestone mountains that reach 2,450 meters (8,038 feet) at Mount Shimbiris, with deep valleys carved into ancient rock formations exposing geological layers dating back millions of years. Erosion has created caves and overhangs where rare plant species adapted to dry conditions grow.
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Somalia contains a diverse range of natural and historical places that take visitors across different eras and landscapes. The coastline stretches along beaches and historic ports, with Mogadishu serving as a cultural center featuring mosques, museums, and colonial buildings. Inland, national parks...
Gulf of Aden
421.4 km
Villa Somalia
817.8 km
Mogadishu Stadium
806.7 kmOpone
332.1 km
Embassy of the United States, Mogadishu
820.4 km
Mogadishu Cathedral
817.8 kmLido Beach, Mogadishu
816.1 km
Mosque of Islamic Solidarity
818.4 km
Banadir Stadium
816.3 km
Arba'a Rukun Mosque
817.8 kmLag Badana-Bushbush National Park
1368 kmAromata
452.1 km
Fakr ad-Din Mosque
818.3 km
Amud
668.1 km
Daallo Mountain
330.9 km
Gezira Beach
836.5 km
National Museum of Somalia
817.8 km
Governor's Palace of Mogadishu
817.8 km
Phare du Cap Guardafui
454.9 km
Dhaymoole
485 km
Kismayo National Park
1212.3 km
Karinhegane
327.5 kmHargeisa National Park
535.4 kmJilib National Park
554.8 km
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
817.4 kmBooco
444 kmPort Dunford
1336 km
Gaanlibah
497.7 km
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