Saint Lucia - Country facts
Map
Click for a larger map
Flag
Capital
Castries
Currency
East Caribbean dollar (XCD)
Internet Code
.lc
Location
Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Background
The island, with its fine natural harbor at Castries, was contested between England and France throughout the 17th and early 18th centuries (changing possession 14 times); it was finally ceded to the UK in 1814. Self-government was granted in 1967 and independence in 1979.
Climate
tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season from January to April, rainy season from May to August
Terrain
volcanic and mountainous with some broad, fertile valleys
Population
166,312 (July 2005 est.)
Ethnic Groups
black 90%, mixed 6%, East Indian 3%, white 1%
Religions
Roman Catholic 90%, Anglican 3%, other Protestant 7%
Languages
English (official), French patois
Map of Saint Lucia
| back | top |