Príncipe facts for kids
Map of São Tomé and Príncipe with Príncipe near the top
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| Geography | |
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| Location | São Tomé and Príncipe |
| Coordinates | 1°37′N 7°24′E / 1.617°N 7.400°E |
| Demographics | |
| Demonym | Príncipean or Principean |
| Population | 5,000 |
Príncipe is a beautiful island nation located off the west coast of Africa. It is the smaller and more northern of the two main islands that make up the country of São Tomé and Príncipe. The island covers an area of about 136 square kilometers (52 square miles). Around 5,000 people call Príncipe their home.
Príncipe was formed by an old volcano that erupted over three million years ago. Over time, wind and rain have shaped its landscape. The island is surrounded by smaller islands like Ilheu Bom Bom, Ilhéu Caroço, Tinhosa Grande, and Tinhosa Pequena. The highest point on Príncipe is Pico de Príncipe, which rises 948 meters (3,110 feet) high. This peak is part of the Obo National Park, an area covered with lush trees.
Long ago, the northern and central parts of Príncipe were large farms called plantations. These farms were set up by people from Portugal. They grew crops like sugar and later cocoa. Príncipe became a very important place for cocoa production. After the country became independent, many of these old farms slowly turned back into forests.
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A Special Scientific Moment
Príncipe Island played a big role in proving one of the most famous scientific ideas. In 1919, a scientist named Arthur Eddington came to Príncipe. He wanted to test Einstein's Theory of Relativity. This theory talks about how gravity can bend light.
Eddington and his team observed a total solar eclipse from Príncipe. During the eclipse, they could see stars that were usually hidden by the sun's glare. They measured how the light from these stars bent as it passed near the sun. Their measurements matched Einstein's predictions. This experiment on Príncipe helped show that Einstein's theory was correct!
Nature and Wildlife
Príncipe is a true paradise for nature lovers. The island is home to many unique plants and animals. Some of these species can only be found on Príncipe. This makes the island very special for scientists and visitors.
Amazing Birds of Príncipe
The island has many colorful and interesting birds. You can find birds like the Príncipe sunbird, which has bright feathers. The Príncipe golden weaver is another beautiful bird known for its weaving nests. The Príncipe speirops and the Principe glossy starling also live here. These birds are an important part of the island's ecosystem.
Unique Frogs and Other Animals
Príncipe is also home to special types of frogs. The Príncipe puddle frog and the Oceanic tree frog are examples. These amphibians thrive in the island's warm, wet climate. The island's rich environment supports many different kinds of wildlife.
Island Life and Scenery
Life on Príncipe is calm and connected to nature. The island has beautiful beaches with clear waters. Some famous beaches include Praia do Boi and Praia das Bananas. These are perfect spots for relaxing and enjoying the ocean.
The main town on Príncipe is Santo António. It is a small, charming capital. You can see historic buildings like the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição church there. The island also has interesting natural spots like Lagoa do Caixão. Nearby, Bom Bom Islet is connected by a bridge, offering more scenic views.
Príncipe is a wonderful place to learn about nature, history, and science. It offers a unique experience for anyone who visits.
Images for kids
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Príncipe sunbird
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Príncipe golden weaver
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Príncipe speirops
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Principe glossy starling
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Príncipe puddle frog
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Oceanic tree frog
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Praia do Boi, in Príncipe
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Praia das Bananas, São Tomé and Príncipe
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Carambola in Príncipe
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Lagoa do Caixão, Príncipe Island
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Beach in Príncipe
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Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, in Santo António, São Tomé and Príncipe.
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Bom Bom Islet, Príncipe
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See also
In Spanish: Isla de Príncipe para niños
