Majuro

Why it's the capital

Majuro became the capital in 1978, when the Marshall Islands separated from the Federated States of Micronesia to form their own republic. It took over from Jaluit Atoll as the administrative centre, and the parliament, the Nitijeļā, meets here.

Fun facts

1. During the Second World War the lagoon became Naval Base Majuro, which for a time was the largest and most active port in the world.
2. The lagoon covers about 295 km², roughly 30 times more than all the atoll's land put together.
3. Laura, at the western end of the atoll about 50 km by road from the main town, has Majuro's highest point, which is still less than 3 m above sea level.