Belmopan

Belmopan is the capital and administrative center of Belize, a country in Central America. It is located in the Cayo District in central Belize, inland from the Caribbean coast. Built as a planned city after Hurricane Hattie devastated Belize City in 1961, Belmopan was designed to host the national government and to reduce hurricane risk. Construction began in 1962, and the city gradually became the seat of government, with the Parliament Building and many ministries opening in the 1970s.

Geography and climate: The city sits on relatively flat terrain near the Belize River basin, with a tropical savanna climate (Aw) featuring a dry season from February to April or May and a wet season from May to November. The surrounding area is rural, with forestry and agriculture.

Population and demographics: Belmopan has a diversified population of roughly 14,000 to 16,000 residents, reflecting Belize’s mestizo, Creole, Maya, and Garifuna communities, among others.

Education and institutions: The city hosts the national government complex and the main campus of the University of Belize, as well as several secondary schools and colleges. The Belize Zoo and the Belmopan Civic Center are notable facilities nearby.

Transportation: Belmopan is connected by the George Price Highway, the main inland route from Belize City. The nearest international airport is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City; Belmopan also has a small domestic airstrip used for charter flights. The economy is dominated by government services, education, and services for residents and visitors.