Geography

Nauru is a single, oval-shaped island, with a distinctive "rim and central plateau" topography. The rim is a narrow coastal strip, only a few hundred meters wide, which is home to most of the population and infrastructure. The central plateau rises to a height of 70 meters (230 ft), and is mostly covered by phosphate-rich rock, which was the country's main source of revenue for decades. There are no rivers or streams on Nauru, and the only freshwater source is a small lake in the central plateau. The island is surrounded by a fringing reef, which is home to a diverse range of marine life.

Population

As of 2023, the population of Nauru is estimated to be around 12,000. The majority of the population is Nauruan, and there are also significant communities of Chinese, I-Kiribati, and other Pacific Islanders. The island is highly urbanized, with the majority of the population living in the capital, Yaren District. The population of Nauru has been declining in recent years, due to emigration and low birth rates. The official language is Nauruan, although English is also widely spoken.

Culture

Nauruan culture is a blend of traditional Pacific Islander customs and modern influences. Traditional customs include fishing, storytelling, and communal gatherings. The island is known for its unique traditional music and dance, which features distinctive instruments and rhythms. Nauru has a rich history of oral traditions, and many stories and legends are passed down through generations. The island also has a growing art scene, with artists creating works that reflect Nauruan history, culture, and contemporary life.

Economy

Nauru's economy has faced significant challenges in recent decades. The island's phosphate deposits, which were once the country's main source of revenue, have been largely depleted. As a result, Nauru has become heavily reliant on foreign aid, particularly from Australia. The country has also been attempting to diversify its economy through tourism, fishing, and other industries. The island has a small but growing private sector, but unemployment remains high.

History

Nauru was inhabited by the Nauruan people for centuries before European contact. The island was first visited by Europeans in 1798, and was annexed by Germany in 1888. After World War I, Nauru became a League of Nations mandate under Australian administration. In 1968, Nauru became an independent republic. The island's economic fortunes changed dramatically in the 1970s, with the discovery of vast phosphate deposits. However, these deposits were largely depleted by the late 20th century, leading to a significant decline in the country's economy.

Major Landmarks

Nauru has several notable landmarks, including:

• The Parliament House
• The Central Plateau
• The Nauru Phosphate Mine
• The Buada Lagoon
• The Nauru Hospital

The Parliament House is a modern building that houses the country's government. The Central Plateau is a distinctive geographic feature of the island, offering scenic views. The Nauru Phosphate Mine is a historical site that played a major role in the island's economy. The Buada Lagoon is a unique freshwater lake located in the center of the island, and the Nauru Hospital is the island's main healthcare facility.