153 sq km (59 sq miles).

18,727 (1997).

122.3 per sq km.

Road Town, Tortola.

5000 (1997).

The British Virgin Islands are an archipelago of more than 60 islands and cays, only 16 of which are inhabited, forming the northern extremity of the Leeward Islands in the eastern Caribbean. They are situated approximately 100km (62 miles) east of Puerto Rico, adjoining the US Virgin Islands. The islands are volcanic in origin, with the exception of Anegada, which is formed of coral and limestone and is the lowest lying. The topography is otherwise mountainous, the highest point being Tortola's Sage Mountain, which rises to 550m (1800ft). There are remnants of a primeval rainforest on Tortola.

British Dependent Territory since 1672. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor David Mackilligin since 1995. Head of Government: Chief Minister Ralph O'Neal since 1999.

English

Mainly Methodist and Church of God, but also Anglican, Adventist, Baptist and Roman Catholic congregations.

GMT - 4

110/60 volts AC, 60Hz. American 2-pin plugs are used.