Welcome to a global journey through the fascinating world of 13-letter countries! While a country’s name length might seem trivial, it’s a unique characteristic that sparks curiosity. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the four countries whose names grace the 13-letter club, exploring their histories, cultures, landscapes, and more.
List of Countries Names with 13 Letters
There are only four countries in the world with 13 letters in their names:
Czech Republic (Central Europe)
- Capital: Prague
- Official Language: Czech
- Currency: Czech koruna (CZK)
- Famous For: Stunning architecture (Prague Castle, Charles Bridge), rich history (Bohemian Kingdom), delicious beer
- Interesting Fact: The Czech Republic is known for its tradition of puppetry and marionette shows.
Netherlands (Western Europe)
- Capital: Amsterdam
- Official Language: Dutch
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Famous For: Tulips, windmills, canals, cycling culture, liberal social policies
- Interesting Fact: The Netherlands is one of the lowest-lying countries in the world, with a significant portion of its land below sea level.
Switzerland (Central Europe)
- Capital: Bern
- Official Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh
- Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)
- Famous For: Alps, chocolate, watches, neutrality, banking
- Interesting Fact: Switzerland has more high peaks than any other country in Europe.
Turkmenistan (Central Asia)
- Capital: Ashgabat
- Official Language: Turkmen
- Currency: Turkmen manat (TMT)
- Famous For: Vast deserts (Karakum Desert), ancient Silk Road cities, unique horse breed (Akhal-Teke)
- Interesting Fact: Turkmenistan has the world’s largest indoor Ferris wheel, located in Ashgabat.
Other Countries with Long Names (Not 13 Letters)
While not fitting our 13-letter criteria, several other countries boast lengthy names:
| Country Name | Continent | Number of Letters | Capital City |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | Asia | 16 | Abu Dhabi |
| Dominican Republic | North America | 16 | Santo Domingo |
| Central African Republic | Africa | 19 | Bangui |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Africa | 26 | Kinshasa |
The Significance of Country Names
Country names often reflect their history, culture, geography, or the people who inhabit them. They can be derived from:
- Historical Figures: Saudi Arabia (named after the Saud dynasty)
- Geographical Features: Iceland (named for its icy landscapes)
- Indigenous Peoples: Bolivia (named after Simón Bolívar, a South American liberator)
- Combination of Factors: New Zealand (named after the Dutch province of Zeeland and later anglicized)
Conclusion
The four 13-letter countries—Czech Republic, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Turkmenistan—offer a diverse tapestry of experiences. From the historic streets of Prague to the vast deserts of Turkmenistan, these nations invite exploration and discovery.
FAQs
Are there any other countries with exactly 13 letters in their names?
No, there are only four.
Which 13-letter country is the largest by area?
Turkmenistan is the largest by area.
Which 13-letter country is the most populous?
The Netherlands is the most populous.
Are any of the 13-letter countries islands?
No, none of them are islands.
What is the official language of Switzerland?
Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.