Nauru is a country in Oceania / Pacific, Oceania with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Nauru that most people don't know.
Nauru is one of the most dramatic boom-and-bust stories in history. Phosphate mining once made it one of the richest nations per capita in the world — Nauruans didn't need to work. When the phosphate ran out, the country was left with a ravaged landscape and enormous debt.
Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world.
Nauru was once one of the wealthiest nations per capita thanks to phosphate mining.
The phosphate ran out and Nauru became one of the world's most indebted nations overnight.
Nauru has the highest rates of obesity and diabetes in the world.
Nauru is one of the most dramatic boom-and-bust stories in history. Phosphate mining once made it one of the richest nations per capita in the world — Nauruans didn't need to work. When the phosphate ran out, the country was left with a ravaged landscape and enormous debt.
Nauru is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
A peaceful freshwater lagoon in the heart of the island surrounded by palm trees
Ghostly white coral pinnacles left behind by decades of phosphate mining — a surreal landscape
A beautiful bay on the eastern coast — Nauru's best beach with clear water and reef
The highest point on Nauru — WWII Japanese gun emplacements with views across the island
Nauru is one of the most dramatic boom-and-bust stories in history. Phosphate mining once made it one of the richest nations per capita in the world — Nauruans didn't need to work. When the phosphate ran out, the country was left with a ravaged landscape and enormous debt.
The capital of Nauru is Yaren (de facto).
Nauru has a population of approximately 10K.
The official languages of Nauru are Nauruan / English.
Nauru gained independence in 1968.
Nauru uses the Australian Dollar (AUD).