When it comes to capitals, people often think of vast, bustling metropolises capable of accommodating large populations.
However, there's a country whose capital is quite the opposite.
This country's capital is not only tiny in size but also densely populated. Which country could this be?
It's the Maldives, and its capital, Malé, is one of the smallest and most crowded cities in the world.
Perhaps, the congestion in Malé is a test of people's appreciation and love for this land.
Malé is just one small island in the Maldives archipelago, covering an area of only 1.96 square kilometers, roughly the size of two and a half Beijing's Summer Palace.
Yet, it's home to 248,000 people, with a population density of over 120,000 people per square kilometer, more than five times higher than Tokyo.
What's it like to live in such a place?
Unlike the familiar bustling metropolises, Malé's narrow alleys can only accommodate motorcycles and taxis.
There are no leisure parks; every inch of land is utilized.
Malé's streets resemble a chessboard, with small houses tightly packed together, connected by narrow alleys.
The roads are not asphalt but paved with Dutch bricks.
Tall coconut trees dot the landscape, making the buildings appear even lower.
If we lived here, our neighbor's roof might be just a stone's throw away.
Despite the congestion, Malé's residents are still warm and welcoming.
The southern and southwestern areas are home to numerous residential and artisanal districts.
The Chinese district is a gathering place for open-air stalls, bustling with life and activity.
Malé's unique environment doesn't diminish its charm as a tourist destination.
Imagine being in the midst of the azure Indian Ocean, with warm white sands beneath your feet, and the sun gently kissing your skin; the sea breeze is refreshing, not stifling.
This is a paradise, renowned as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean."
Although small, Malé benefits from its international port, where goods from around the world can be purchased.
In the 19th century, Malé port implemented duty-free policies, attracting ships from various countries.
Today, the island boasts many British-style and colonial-era buildings, exuding an exotic charm.
Malé not only has a commercial atmosphere but also a rich cultural and artistic vibe.
Locals love music and dance; every evening, the streets are filled with melodious tunes.
Though simple, Malé's nightlife is unique.
Due to the influence of Islam, there are no bars or entertainment venues, but one can enjoy a drink at the hotels on the airport island.
The Maldives' remote geographical location makes transportation inconvenient, but the development of sea, land, and air transport alleviates the pressure on Malé's inland.
Many islanders live and work on nearby islands.
Despite its congestion, Malé has always been the political and economic center of the Maldives.
The country's environment is extremely fragile, with an average elevation of just 1.2 meters. With rising sea levels, there's a risk of the entire country being submerged.
Surviving in such an environment is a testament to the resilience of the Maldivian people.
With wisdom and unity, they have overcome numerous challenges, safeguarding the Maldives' civilization.
Despite being small and crowded, Malé showcases human ingenuity and vitality.
Locals utilize every inch of land for living and production, while interconnected sea, land, and air routes alleviate the imbalance in population and resource distribution.
The fate of the Maldives will depend on global climate change, but they are believed to find a path to coexist harmoniously with the environment.
Although small, Malé proves the greatness and wisdom of humanity.
This crowded capital protects the entire country with its simple way of life.
Malé is like a "glistening pearl," attracting global attention, showcasing the spirit of diligence and wisdom.
The lifestyle here tells us that the essence of life lies not in how much we possess but in how we cherish what we already have.
In Malé, people create infinite possibilities with limited resources, interpreting perseverance in survival with wisdom and diligence.
Malé, the world's smallest and most crowded capital, has become a precious haven on the planet.
Its existence demonstrates humanity's pursuit of a better life and profound understanding of the environment.
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