Belize District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Belize District
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Location of the district in Belize
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| Country |  Belize |
| Capital | Belize City |
| Population
(2009)
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| • Total | 100,100 |
The Belize District is a special area, or "district," in the country of Belize. Its main city and capital is Belize City, which is also the largest city in the entire country.
Contents
Exploring Belize District's Towns and Villages
The Belize District is home to many interesting places. Some are on islands, while others are on the mainland.
Island Communities
San Pedro Town is a lively town located on Ambergris Caye. This is a large island off the coast. Other island villages in the district include Caye Caulker and St. George's Caye. These islands are popular spots for tourists.
Mainland Villages
Many villages are found on the mainland part of the Belize District. These include Maskall, Bomba, Corozalito, Santana, Lucky Strike, Rockstone Pond, Boston, Crooked Tree, Biscayne, May Pen, Gardenia, Grace Bank, Sand Hill, Lord's Bank, Ladyville, Burrel Boom, Buttercup, Scotland Halfmoon, Flowers Bank, Bermudian Landing, Isabella Bank, Double Head Cabbage, Willows Bank, Saint Paul's Bank, Big Falls, Rancho Dolores, Hattieville, Freetown Sibun, Gracie Rock, La Democracia, and Gales Point.
Nature and Ancient Sites
The Belize District also has amazing natural areas and historical sites. You can visit the Crooked Tree and Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuaries. The Belize Zoo, about 30 miles west of Belize City, is another great spot. Plus, you can explore the ancient ruins of Altun Ha, built by the Maya people long ago.
A Look at History in Belize District
The Belize District was the first area where Europeans settled in Belize. They chose to live along the rivers and creeks. This was because these waterways were the main way to travel and move goods.
How Villages Got Their Names
Many early settlements were named after the landowners. These places were often called "banks" because they were located on the banks of a river. For example, Mr. Lord's land on the Belize River became known as Lord's Bank. Similarly, Mr. Flowers' home on the same river became Flowers Bank. Over time, many of these old estates grew into the villages we know today.
Old Estates That Didn't Become Villages
Some other old estates, like Baker, Bob Eiley, Bocotora, Nago Bank, Washing Tree, Cedar Bank, Churchyard, Egypt, Watters Bank, and White Hill, did not grow into villages. A few places, such as Davis Bank and Tropical Park, have now become parts of larger communities.
Geography of Belize District
Most of the Belize District is located in the east-central part of mainland Belize. It also includes several islands off the coast.
Islands of the District
Important islands in the Belize District include Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, St. George's Caye, Caye Chapel, English Caye, and Goff's Caye. Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are especially popular for tourism.
Rivers Flowing Through the District
The longest river in Belize, the Belize River, flows right through the district. It eventually empties into the Caribbean Sea along the coast. Other important rivers in this district are the Northern River, Sibun River, and Manatee River.
See also
In Spanish: Distrito de Belice para niños
