Welcome to Antigua and Barbuda

Population: 67,897 (July 2003 est.)

Area: total: 443 sq km

Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico.

Antigua is a hilly island with a heavily indented coast, while Barbuda is a flat coral island dominated by a large lagoon on its western side. Most residents are of African ancestry. Anglicanism is the predominant religion. Tourism is the most important industry, and there is a growing offshore financial services sector. Agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing are also pursued. Periodic hurricanes can cause heavy damage to the islands. The country has a parliamentary-style government with a bicameral legislature. The British monarch is the titular head of state, but primary executive power lies with the prime minister.

Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition, Copyright (c) 2004.