200 million years ago, the Seychelles existed as one continent – Gondwana. The result of continuous tectonic movements then created what we know today as the Seychelles and the Indian Ocean that surrounds it.
The Seychelles is comprised of 73 coral islands and 42 inner islands, including Mahé and Praslin, which are formed by granite. These 42 additions to the archipelago are the only islands in the world that have no coral or volcanic elements. Granite rocks can be found clustered along many of the inner islands’ beaches, bringing with them a charm that gives the Seychelles its label as one of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
The best places to get married abroad? The Seychelles!
- Population: roughly 92,000 people live on the Seychelles (2015)
- Capital: Victoria with 26,000 inhabitants
- Name: République de Seychelles (Republic of Seychelles)
- Motto: ‘The end crowns the work’
- Government: Parliamentary Republic, Democracy
- Language: English, French, Seychellois Creole
- Religion: mainly Roman Catholics
- Currency: 1 Seychellois Rupee=100cents
- History: The islands were first spotted by Vasco da Gama on his explorations in the 15th century. Later the French and British settled on the island. The Seychelles became independent from Britain only in 1976.
- National Day: 18 June
- National Symbols: Payanke (Tropical Bird Orchid) – national flower, Coco-de-Mer Palm – national tree, national animal – Giant Tortoise, national bird – Black Parrot
- National Colours: red and blue