Home » Countries That Start With

Countries That Start With

20–30 minutes

Table of Contents: Countries That Start With

Explore the histories, cultures, and legacies of countries that start with each letter of the alphabet. From the towering pyramids of Egypt to the sophisticated urban planning of the Indus Valley Civilization, every nation has a story that extends far beyond its borders. The philosophical insights of ancient Greece, the engineering marvels of Rome, and the agricultural advancements of early civilizations continue to shape our world today. This page allows you to discover how each country’s past has influenced modern society, governance, and global connections.

This page aspires to be more than just a list; it’s a journey of discovery, inviting you to appreciate the multifaceted wonders that make each country a unique and valuable part of our global community. It’s a place to learn, to be inspired, and to foster a deeper understanding of the richness and diversity of our world.

Dependent Territories

These territories, while linked to administering states, showcase unique identities. Examples include Greenland (autonomous Danish territory) with its Arctic landscapes and Inuit culture, Puerto Rico (U.S. Commonwealth) boasting Caribbean heritage, French Polynesia (French overseas collectivity) with its idyllic islands, Guam (U.S. territory) holding strategic importance, Bermuda (British overseas territory) known for its pink-sand beaches, and Aruba (constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands) with its distinct Dutch and Caribbean influences. These diverse locales, each with their own wonders, navigate governance and cultural identity in relation to their administering powers.

Disputed Territories

Regions with contested sovereignty often hold significant historical and cultural weight for multiple claimants. Examples include the Golan Heights (claimed by Syria, occupied by Israel), Kashmir (claimed by India, Pakistan, and China), the West Bank (claimed by Palestinians, largely under Israeli control), the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) (claimed by Argentina, administered by the UK), Western Sahara (claimed by Morocco, contested by the Polisario Front), and the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands (claimed by China and Taiwan, administered by Japan). These areas, frequently possessing strategic value or cultural significance, remain focal points of international tension and competing narratives.

Special Regions

These autonomous entities within sovereign states possess distinct systems and cultures. Hong Kong and Macau (China) maintain unique legal, economic, and customs territories from their colonial past. Åland (Finland) enjoys extensive self-rule with its own parliament and demilitarized status, reflecting its Swedish-speaking heritage. The Kurdistan Region (Iraq) operates with significant autonomy, including its own government and security forces. Additionally, Tibet Autonomous Region (China) is designated for its distinct cultural and religious identity, although its level of practical autonomy is a subject of debate. The Autonomous Community of Catalonia (Spain) possesses significant devolved powers, including its own language and cultural institutions.


Countries That Start With “a”

Roman baths and theater ruins in Tipasa, Algeria, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Countries that start with a
More
  • Algeria: Tipasa – This coastal city contains remnants of Roman baths and a theater overlooking the sea.
  • Armenia: Garni Temple – Its peristyle structure and intricate carvings are characteristic of Hellenistic architecture.
  • Afghanistan: Bactria (Ai-Khanoum) – Archaeological evidence reveals a Greek-style gymnasium and a temple with Central Asian influences.
  • Azerbaijan: Gobustan – The petroglyphs depict scenes of hunting, animal husbandry, and possibly early astronomical observations.
  • Albania: Apollonia – The city was strategically located on the Via Egnatia, a major Roman road connecting East and West.

Countries That Start With “B”

Historic Roman artifacts in Tongeren, one of Belgium’s oldest cities.
More
  • Bahrain: Dilmun – Considered by some to be the land of immortality in Mesopotamian texts.
  • Bangladesh: Wari-Bateshwar – Predates other known major urban centers in Bengal.
  • Barbados: (Pre-colonial sites) – Evidence suggests early Amerindian habitation.
  • Belarus: Burial Mounds (Kurgan) – Indicate early Slavic and Baltic cultures.
  • Belgium: Tongeren – One of the oldest cities in Belgium, with Roman origins.

Countries That Start With “c”

Reconstructed Norse longhouses at L’Anse aux Meadows, Canada, evidence of Viking voyages. Countries that start with C.
More
  • Cambodia: Angkor Wat – Its intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu epics and Khmer history.
  • Canada: L’Anse aux Meadows – Remains of Norse longhouses provide evidence of their transatlantic voyages.
  • Cabo Verde: (Pre-colonial sites) – Archaeological research is uncovering early settlement patterns on the islands.
  • Cameroon: Shum Laka – The rock shelter has yielded some of the oldest human remains in West Africa.
  • Central African Republic: (Early settlements) – Archaeological findings contribute to understanding the region’s prehistory.

Countries That Start With “d”

Colorful 17th-century townhouses along Nyhavn’s waterfront in Copenhagen, Denmark. Countries that start with D.
More
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo: Ishango bone – Its notched markings may represent a lunar calendar or early arithmetic.
  • Denmark: Jelling Stones – These rune stones provide key historical information about early Danish rulers.
  • Djibouti: Land of Punt – Egyptian records detail voyages to this land for incense and other valuable resources.
  • Dominica: (Pre-colonial Carib settlements) – Archaeological sites reveal evidence of their unique way of life.
  • Dominican Republic: (Taíno sites) – Caves on the island contain significant examples of Taíno rock art.

COUNTRIES THAT BEGIN WITH “e”

Ancient tombs and hieroglyphs in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, near Luxor.
More
  • Ecuador: Valdivia – Their “Venus” figurines are among the oldest ceramics found in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Egypt: Giza Pyramids – The Great Pyramid remains one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • El Salvador: Joya de Cerén – The volcanic ash preserved not only structures but also household tools and food remains.
  • Equatorial Guinea: (Pre-colonial sites) – Archaeological research continues to uncover details of early populations.
  • Eritrea: Aksum – Its massive granite obelisks marked royal tombs and celebrated the kingdom’s power.

Countries That Start With “f”

Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey rising from tidal flats in Normandy, France.
More
  • Fiji: Lapita Sites – Fragments of their pottery with intricate geometric designs are found across many Pacific islands.
  • Finland: Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings – These depict human figures, boats, and elk, offering insights into ancient beliefs.
  • France: Pont du Gard – This impressive Roman aqueduct still stands as a testament to Roman engineering skills.
  • France: Lascaux Cave – Its Paleolithic paintings are some of the most famous and well-preserved examples of early human art.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “g”

Tikal’s towering Mayan pyramids emerging from the Guatemalan rainforest. Countries that start with G.
More
  • Gambia: Wassu Stone Circles – The purpose of these megalithic monuments, dating back over a millennium, remains debated.
  • Germany: Limes Germanicus – This extensive Roman frontier included forts, watchtowers, and palisades.
  • Ghana: (Ancient Kingdoms) – The Ashanti Empire, known for its rich gold trade, built upon earlier cultural foundations.
  • Greece: Acropolis of Athens – Features iconic structures like the Parthenon, a symbol of ancient Greek democracy and philosophy.
  • Guatemala: Tikal – This major Mayan city features towering pyramids and intricate carved stelae.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “h”

Mayan ruins at El Puente, Honduras, with plazas and carved stelae. Countries that start with H.

H

More
  • Haiti: (Taíno sites) – The National Pantheon Museum in Port-au-Prince houses artifacts from the pre-Columbian era.
  • Honduras: Copán – Its Temple 11 features the famed Hieroglyphic Stairway, one of the longest Mayan inscriptions.
  • Honduras: El Puente – Another significant Mayan site showing connections with Copán’s political center.
  • Hungary: Aquincum – The site includes a reconstructed organ and remnants of a Roman military camp.
  • Hungary: Százhalombatta-Földvár – A large Bronze Age tell settlement indicating long-term habitation.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “i”

Vakil Mosque’s prayer hall in Shiraz, Iran, with floral tilework and 48 stone columns. Countries that start with I.

I

More
  • Iceland: Þingvellir – The Althing is one of the oldest parliamentary sites in the world.
  • India: Mohenjo-daro – Its Great Bath suggests ritual purification practices.
  • Indonesia: Borobudur – Contains numerous carved panels depicting Buddhist teachings.
  • Iran: Persepolis – The Gate of All Nations was a monumental entrance.
  • Iraq: Babylon – The Ishtar Gate was adorned with vibrant glazed brick depictions of animals.
  • Ireland: Newgrange – Its passage aligns with the winter solstice sunrise.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “j”

The narrow Siq canyon leading to Petra’s Treasury, Jordan, with carved rock walls.

J

More
  • Jamaica: (Taíno sites) – Archaeological excavations reveal zemis, spiritual objects central to Taíno beliefs.
  • Japan: Ise Grand Shrine – Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, it is rebuilt every twenty years.
  • Japan: Horyu-ji Temple – Features some of the oldest wooden structures in the world, reflecting early Buddhist art.
  • Jordan: Petra – The Siq, a narrow canyon entrance, was a key defensive feature of the city.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “k”

Ancient petroglyphs of animals and hunters at Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan. Countries that start with K.

K

More
  • Kazakhstan: Saka Burial Mounds – The “Golden Man” burial exemplifies the artistry of nomadic goldsmiths.
  • Kenya: Olduvai Gorge – Louis and Mary Leakey’s discoveries here advanced our understanding of human origins.
  • Kiribati: (Prehistoric sites) – Archaeological evidence helps trace Micronesian migration patterns.
  • Kuwait: Failaka Island – Ruins of Greek temples and fortifications from Alexander the Great’s era exist.
  • Kyrgyzstan: Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs – Thousands of rock carvings illustrate the region’s ancient inhabitants.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “l”

Roman theater at Leptis Magna, Libya, overlooking the Mediterranean. Countries that start with L.

L

More
  • Laos: Plain of Jars – Theories suggest the jars were used for burial rituals or rice wine fermentation.
  • Latvia: Turaida Hillfort – A significant center for the Livonian people before the arrival of crusaders.
  • Lebanon: Byblos – The Phoenician alphabet developed here had a profound impact on writing systems.
  • Lesotho: Liphofung Cave – Contains significant examples of San rock art.
  • Libya: Leptis Magna – Features impressive Roman public buildings, including a theater and baths.
  • Lithuania: Kernavė – A complex of hillforts representing a major pre-Christian political and religious center.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “m”

Ħaġar Qim’s limestone megaliths, Malta, older than the pyramids.

M

More
  • Madagascar: Royal Hill of Ambohimanga – While later, it holds connections to older sacred sites.
  • Malawi: Chongoni Rock Art Area – The paintings often depict elongated human figures and animals.
  • Malaysia: Lembah Bujang – Archaeological finds include Hindu and Buddhist statues.
  • Mali: Timbuktu – Its ancient libraries housed important Islamic manuscripts.
  • Malta: Ħaġar Qim – One of the oldest free-standing stone structures globally.
  • Mexico: Teotihuacan – A massive ancient city with impressive pyramids.

COUNTRIES THAT START WITH “n”

The sacred pond and ruins at Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini, Nepal. Countries that start with N.

N

More
  • Namibia: Twyfelfontein – The rock art depicts animals, human figures, and abstract symbols.
  • Nepal: Lumbini – The Maya Devi Temple marks the sacred spot of Buddha’s birth.
  • Netherlands: Forum Hadriani – Served as a key Roman administrative and trade center.
  • New Zealand (Aotearoa): Pā – These fortified sites demonstrate sophisticated defensive strategies.
  • Nicaragua: Ometepe Island – The island’s volcanic landscape was significant to its ancient inhabitants.

COUNTRIES THAT Start WITH “o”

Traditional Omani architecture with forts, dunes, and mountain vistas under a clear sky.

O

More
  • Oman: Salut – Excavations have revealed pottery from Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, indicating active trade.
  • Oman: Ras al-Jinz – A copper Indus seal was discovered here, further evidencing Indus Valley connections.
  • Oman: Bat – Features well-preserved tombs, and some artifacts found show links to wider trade networks.
  • Oman: (Copper Mines) – Ancient workings demonstrate the scale of copper extraction in the region.
  • Oman: Soft Stone Vessels – These Omani-produced items have been found in Mesopotamian and Indus Valley sites.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “p”

Machu Picchu's ancient Inca stone structures nestled among Andean peaks at sunrise. Countries that start with P.

P

More
  • Pakistan: Mohenjo-daro – Its Great Bath indicates sophisticated engineering.
  • Palau: Badrulchau – Local legends explain the origin of the stones.
  • Panama: Gran Chiriquí – Artifacts include grinding stones and petroglyphs.
  • Papua New Guinea: Kuk Early Agricultural Site – Evidence of early taro cultivation exists.
  • Paraguay: (Pre-colonial Guarani sites) – Pottery and dwelling remnants have been found.
  • Peru: Machu Picchu – A remarkable example of Inca architecture in the Andes.
  • Philippines: Manunggul Jar – The boat on its lid may symbolize the afterlife journey.
  • Poland: Biskupin – Reconstructed longhouses show early Slavic life.
  • Portugal: Almendres Cromlech – Its stone arrangement aligns with celestial events.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “q”

Qatar's desert landscape meeting the Persian Gulf coastline. Countries that start  with Q.

Q

More

Qatar

  • Jebel Jassassiyeh: This site features numerous rock carvings (petroglyphs) depicting boats, animals, and geometric patterns, offering insights into prehistoric artistic expression and possibly maritime activities.
  • Al Khor Island (Purple Island): Archaeological excavations here have revealed evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, with findings including pottery and flint tools, suggesting early settlement and resource utilization. The island may have also been involved in dye production in antiquity.
  • Murwab Archaeological Site: Dating back to the Abbasid period (9th-11th centuries AD), Murwab represents an early Islamic settlement with the remains of houses, a fort, and mosques, highlighting Qatar’s role in the wider Islamic world and its trade connections during that era.
  • Ras Abrouq: This coastal area has yielded evidence of prehistoric settlements and encampments, with finds including flint tools and pottery fragments.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “r”

Ancient Dacian stone sanctuaries in the Orăștie Mountains

R

More
  • Romania: Sarmizegetusa Regia – Features circular stone and timber sanctuaries reflecting Dacian religious beliefs.
  • Romania: Constanța (Tomis) – Roman mosaics depict mythological scenes and maritime life in this ancient port city.
  • Russia (Altai): Pazyryk Burials – Frozen tombs preserved elaborate textiles and tattooed human remains of nomadic elites.
  • Russia (Crimea): Chersonesus – The well-preserved grid plan includes a basilica and agricultural land divisions (chora).

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “s”

Ancient wooden pagodas and stone bridges of Bulguksa Temple. Countries that start with S.

S

More
  • Saudi Arabia: Hegra (Mada’in Saleh) – Its elaborate tombs blend Nabataean and Roman styles.
  • Senegal: Sine Ngayène – The stone circles are thought to be burial-related.
  • Serbia: Viminacium – This Roman city was once a provincial capital.
  • South Africa: Sterkfontein – “Mrs. Ples” is a significant early hominid find.
  • South Korea: Bulguksa Temple – A Silla Buddhist architecture masterpiece.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “t”

Two-story marble facade of the Library of Celsus in ancient Ephesus

T

More
  • Taiwan: Tapenkeng Culture Sites – Reveal early Neolithic pottery.
  • Tajikistan: Panjikent – Shows well-preserved Sogdian urban life.
  • Tanzania: Olduvai Gorge – Significant early human fossil discoveries were made here.
  • Thailand: Sukhothai Historical Park – Features ruins of the early Siamese kingdom.
  • Turkey: Ephesus – Its Library of Celsus was a grand ancient structure.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “u”

Prehistoric standing stones at Stonehenge on grassy plains. Countries that start with U.

U

More
  • Uganda: Bigo bya Mugenyi – Large earthworks suggesting early social organization.
  • Ukraine: Olbia – Remains of an important ancient Greek trading colony.
  • United Arab Emirates: Umm an-Nar Culture Sites – Distinctive circular tombs from the Bronze Age.
  • United Kingdom: Stonehenge – A prehistoric monument with possible astronomical significance.
  • United States: Cahokia Mounds – The largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico.
  • Uzbekistan: Samarkand – A major city on the Silk Road with ancient foundations.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “v”

Dome of St. Peter's Basilica overlooking Vatican City

V

More
  • Vanuatu: Lapita Sites – Evidence of early Pacific Islander culture.
  • Vatican City: (Built upon ancient Rome) – Located on historically significant Roman land.
  • Venezuela: (Pre-Columbian petroglyphs) – Evidence of early indigenous artistic expression.
  • Vietnam: Đông Sơn Culture Sites – Famous for their distinctive bronze drums.
  • Vietnam: Mỹ Sơn – Temple ruins of the ancient Champa kingdom.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “W”

Entrance passage to Bryn Celli Ddu's Neolithic burial chamber. Countries that start with W.

W

More
  • Wales: Bryn Celli Ddu – A Neolithic passage tomb with a possible henge preceding it.
  • Wales: Tre’r Ceiri – One of the largest and most impressive Iron Age hillforts in Britain.
  • Western Australia: Pilbara Rock Art – Features depictions of extinct megafauna and early human figures.
  • Western Samoa: Star Mounds (Malae) – These raised platforms served ceremonial and social purposes in ancient Samoan society.
  • Wallis: Talietumu – A significant ancient Tongan fortress, demonstrating historical connections.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “y”

Towering 16th-century mudbrick buildings in Shibam's walled city

Y

More
  • Yemen: Marib Dam – An ancient engineering marvel that supported agriculture and urban development in the Sabaean kingdom.
  • Yemen: Shibam – Known as the “Manhattan of the Desert” for its ancient mud-brick high-rise buildings.
  • Yemen: Old City of Sana’a – A UNESCO World Heritage site with a history spanning over 2,500 years and significant early Islamic heritage.
  • Yemen: Baraqish – An ancient walled city that was a significant center of the Minaean Kingdom.
  • Yemen: Landmarks of the Ancient Kingdom of Saba, Marib – A UNESCO site comprising seven archaeological locations illustrating the Sabaean civilization.

COUNTRIES THAT start WITH “z”

Granite walls of Great Zimbabwe's elliptical ruins

Z

More
  • Zambia: (Rock Art Sites) – Numerous sites across Zambia feature ancient rock paintings and engravings.
  • Zambia: (Iron Age Settlements) – Archaeological finds indicate early metallurgical practices.
  • Zimbabwe: Great Zimbabwe – Its massive stone enclosures and towers are a testament to a sophisticated civilization.
  • Zimbabwe: Khami Ruins – Another significant Iron Age city with terraced stone walls.
  • Zimbabwe: Mapungubwe – A predecessor to Great Zimbabwe, with evidence of early gold trading.


Circum-Caribbean Cultures and Civilizations

Circum-Caribbean Cultures and Civilizations

The Circum-Caribbean is a broad cultural zone encompassing the northern coasts of South America (Venezuela, Colombia, Panama) and the southern […]


Andean Cultures and Civilizations

Andean Cultures and Civilizations

The Andes Mountains, stretching across the western edge of South America, are the cradle of one of the world’s most […]


Birdstone

Birdstone | Definition

“Birdstone” Pronunciation: /ˈbɜːrdstoʊn/ (BIRD-stohn) Part of Speech: Noun Quick Definition: A carefully carved and highly polished, bird-shaped stone artifact of […]


Batammaliba Architecture

Batammaliba Architecture | Definition

“Batammaliba Architecture” Pronunciation: /bɑːtɑːmɑːˈliːbɑː ˈɑːrkɪtɛktʃər/ (bah-tah-mah-LEE-bah AR-ki-tek-chur) Part of Speech: Proper Noun Quick Definition: The traditional, defensive, tower-like mud houses […]


Butcher Marks

Butcher Marks | Definition

“Butcher Marks” Pronunciation: /ˈbʊtʃər mɑːrks/ (BOOT-chur marks) Part of Speech: Noun (Plural) Quick Definition: Distinctive incisions, scrapes, or chop marks […]


Bolus

Bolus | Definition

“Bolus” Pronunciation: /ˈboʊləs/ (BOH-ləs) Part of Speech: Noun Quick Definition: A fine, smooth, natural clay (usually a hydrated aluminum silicate […]