Located in the north of the world map, this country is at the top of the ranking of country with the largest number of islands in the world. With a total of 267,570 islands registered, it is thus placed above other territories known for their numerous islands, such as Norway, Finland or even Japan.
Although many of these islands are uninhabited, some of them are part of urban areas like the capital, Stockholm.
Which country has the most islands?
When it comes to identifying the country with the most islands, Suede takes first place. According to portal data ‘World Atlas“, Sweden has 267,570 islands distributed throughout its territory. This figure is significantly higher than that of other countries which also stand out on this point, such as Norway And Finlandwho occupy second and third place respectively.
Sweden is characterized by its rugged geography and proximity to the Baltic Seawhich favors the presence of a large number of islands and small islets. Many of these formations are the product of a geological phenomenon known as isostasiswhich influenced the elevation and creation of new islands in the Fenoscandia region.
The vast majority of these islands They are small and uninhabitedwhich preserves its biodiversity and its natural ecosystem.
What are the main islands of Sweden
Although the country has hundreds of thousands of islands, only a few are large and accessible enough to be inhabited. Among the best known and most extensive are:
- Gotland: With 2,994 km², it is the largest island in Sweden.
- Öland: occupies 1,347 km² and is appreciated for its natural beauty.
- Orust: It extends over 346 km² and is the third largest island in the country.
- Hisingen: This 199 km² urban island is located in Gothenburg.
- Varmdö: with 181 km², it is part of the Stockholm archipelago.
These islands are also recognized for their tourist importance and its contribution to the local economy.
Gotland, for example, is a popular summer destination with Swedes and visitors from other Nordic countries, while Stockholmthe capital of Sweden, is built on 14 islands linked together by more than 50 bridges.
Which other countries complete the podium with the most islands?
After Sweden, Norway ranks second on the list of countries with the largest number of islands, with approximately 239,057 islands.
This Scandinavian country is also characterized by its fjords and impressive seascapes. Although most of its islands are small and sparsely populated, Norway has rich biodiversity on its coasts.
Finlandfor its part, occupies third place with 178,947 islands. Finland’s large number of islands is partly due to the complex geography of the Baltic Sea region, particularly in the Turku Archipelagonear the southwest coast of the country. Like Norway and Sweden, many of these Finnish islands are small and uninhabited.
Other countries in the ranking with more islands
In addition to the Nordic countries, territories from different continents are also included in the list of 15 countries with the most islands. Here are some notable examples:
- Canada: with 52,455 islandsoccupies fourth place in the ranking.
- USA: Fifth, he 18,617 islandsmany of which are located in Alaska.
- Indonesia: stands out as the Asian country with the most islands, adding 17,504.
- Pepper: only South American representative on the list, with 5,000 islands.
- Cuba: in the Caribbean, it has 4,195 islands.
Each of these countries has unique geographical characteristics which explain the presence of a large number of islands on their territory. Would you visit one?
