Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa, Africa with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Sierra Leone that most people don't know.
Sierra Leone's name means Lion Mountains in Portuguese — named by Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra in 1462. The country has some of West Africa's most beautiful beaches and was a major destination for freed slaves returning from America and Britain.
Sierra Leone means Lion Mountains in Portuguese.
Sierra Leone has some of West Africa's most beautiful and uncrowded beaches.
The Blood Diamond trade that inspired the 2006 film originated in Sierra Leone.
Freetown was founded as a home for freed slaves in 1787.
Sierra Leone's name means Lion Mountains in Portuguese — named by Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra in 1462. The country has some of West Africa's most beautiful beaches and was a major destination for freed slaves returning from America and Britain.
Sierra Leone is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
A 500-year-old cotton tree where freed slaves gave thanks — the most important symbol in Sierra Leone
A rescue sanctuary for orphaned chimpanzees just outside Freetown
A wildlife sanctuary on a river island — one of the highest primate densities in the world
Three pristine islands off Freetown with coral reefs, turtles and colonial ruins
Sierra Leone's name means Lion Mountains in Portuguese — named by Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra in 1462. The country has some of West Africa's most beautiful beaches and was a major destination for freed slaves returning from America and Britain.
The capital of Sierra Leone is Freetown.
Sierra Leone has a population of approximately 8.1M.
The official language of Sierra Leone is English.
Sierra Leone gained independence in 1961.
Sierra Leone uses the Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL).