Kiritimati (Christmas Island): A History and Guide to the World’s Largest Atoll
Kiritimati, commonly known as Christmas Island, is an atoll located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Republic of Kiribati, an island nation located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Kiritimati is the largest atoll in the world, and its name means “Christmas” in the local language of Gilbertese.
History
Kiritimati has a long and fascinating history. It was first discovered by the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana in 1568, who named it “Isla de los Reyes Magos” (Island of the Three Kings). The name was later changed to “Christmas Island” by British explorer Captain James Cook in 1777.
Kiritimati was annexed by the United Kingdom in 1892 and was used as a guano mining site. The guano was used to fertilize crops in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world. The island was also used as a refueling station for ships traveling between Australia and the United States during World War II.
In 1979, the island was declared a wildlife sanctuary, and it is now home to a variety of birds, fish, and other marine life. In 1983, Kiritimati became part of the newly independent nation of Kiribati.
Amazing Facts
Kiritimati is the largest atoll in the world, with a total land area of 388 square miles (1,001 square kilometers).
It is also the northernmost point of the equator and the most easterly point of the International Date Line. This means that Kiritimati is the first place in the world to experience the new day and year.
Kiritimati is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered coconut crab and the rare Christmas Island frigatebird.
The island is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to more than 30 species of migratory birds.
Things to Do
Kiritimati is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience a unique tropical paradise. There are a variety of activities and attractions to explore on the island, including:
1. Birdwatching: Kiritimati is home to more than 30 species of migratory birds, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
2. Snorkeling: The warm, crystal-clear waters of Kiritimati are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the colorful coral reefs and marine life.
3. Fishing: Kiritimati is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of species including tuna, marlin, and wahoo.
4. Island Hopping: Kiritimati is made up of several small islands, making it the perfect destination for island hopping.
5. Relaxing: Kiritimati is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm climate.
Kiritimati is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the wildlife, go fishing, or just relax and take in the scenery, Kiritimati is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.