Saint Helena (disambiguation) facts for kids

Saint Helena is a special island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is part of a British Overseas Territory. This means it's a place that belongs to the United Kingdom but is not directly part of it. The island is famous for its history and unique wildlife.

Saint Helena can also refer to other things, like important people, places, and even ships!

Saint Helena Island: A British Territory

The main island of Saint Helena is officially part of a territory called Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. This territory includes three different groups of islands in the Atlantic. Saint Helena is the largest and most well-known.

Where is Saint Helena?

Saint Helena is very far away from other land. It is located in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean. The nearest major landmass is Africa, about 1,950 kilometers (1,210 miles) to the east. South America is even further away.

History of the Island

The island was discovered by Portuguese explorers in 1502. It was named after Saint Helena of Constantinople. For a long time, it was an important stop for ships sailing between Europe and Asia. Ships would stop there to get fresh water and supplies.

One of the most famous events in the island's history is when Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled there. He was a famous French emperor. After losing a big battle, he was sent to Saint Helena in 1815 and lived there until he died in 1821. His house on the island is now a museum.

Life on the Island

Today, about 4,000 people live on Saint Helena. The capital is Jamestown, which is built in a narrow valley. The island has a unique environment with many plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. People often visit to see its beautiful nature and learn about its history.

Famous People Named Helena

Many important people throughout history have been named Helena or Helen. Here are a few:

• Saint Helena, Mother of Constantine I: She was a Roman empress who lived a very long time ago. She was the mother of Emperor Constantine I the Great. She is known for her important role in early Christianity.
• Saint Helena of Skövde: This Helena was a Swedish saint from the 12th century. She is remembered for her good deeds and helping others.
• Saint Helena of Serbia: She was a queen in medieval Serbia. She was known for her wisdom and for building churches and monasteries.

Places Around the World Named St Helena

The name Saint Helena is also used for several other places, often named after the famous saint.

In Australia

• St Helena Island, Queensland: This is a historic island in Australia. It used to be a prison, but now it's a national park where people can visit and learn about its past.
• St Helena, Victoria: This is a suburb, which is a neighborhood, in the city of Melbourne.

In the United States

• St. Helena, California: This is a city in California, known for its beautiful vineyards and wine production.
• Mount Saint Helena: This is a tall mountain in California. It's a popular spot for hiking and offers amazing views.
• St. Helena Island, South Carolina: This is a barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. It's known for its natural beauty and Gullah culture.

Ships Named St Helena

Several ships have been named "St Helena," often because of the island's importance as a port.

• RMS St Helena (1963) and RMS St Helena (1989): These were both British Royal Mail Ships. They were important for carrying mail, passengers, and supplies to the remote island of Saint Helena for many years. The 1989 ship was the last working Royal Mail Ship in the world until it was retired.
• HMS St. Helena (K590): This was a British warship, a type of frigate, used during World War II. It helped protect other ships.