The World Factbook

The World Factbook provides basic intelligence on the history, people, government, economy, energy, geography, environment, communications, transportation, military, terrorism, and transnational issues for 266 world entities.

Travel the globe with CIA’s World Factbook.

Fact of The Day

September 21, 2023

Statue of Queen Victoria

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What's New

UNESCO recently inscribed 24 cultural sites and 3 natural sites representing 26 countries and entities to its World Heritage List. The 27 additions bring the total number of sites on the list to 1,184, consisting of 924 cultural, 221 natural, and 39 mixed sites. Updated entries for both the World and individual countries and entities can be found in the Government category under “National heritage.”

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Explore Countries

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World Travel Facts

Travel more intelligently with The World Factbook Travel Facts. Here’s what you should know about each country before you go.

One-page Country Summaries

Pressed for time? Check out our one-page summaries for essential information on each country.

Flags of the World

Every flag has a story. View flags of all the world’s countries and territories to learn the symbolism behind each design.

Country Comparisons

Love data? The World Factbook has over 65 rank order pages that compare country data in specific fields.

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