Christmas Island

Christmas Island is an Australian outlying territory in the Indian Ocean, about 350 km south of Java and Sumatra and 1,550 km northwest of the Australian mainland. The island was formed about 60 million years ago by a volcanic eruption. It was discovered on December 25, 1643 by an English captain and later annexed by the British. From 1899, phosphate was mined, and the island gained economic importance. Today it is known for its unique flora and fauna as well as its beautiful beaches and bays. Popular attractions include Christmas Island National Park, the Blowholes, Dales Gorge and the waterfalls of Hugh's Dale.

• Country data Christmas Island