Port Moresby Map

Description:

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Description:

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Port Moresby is the capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea, located on the shores of the Gulf of Papua. The city serves as the country's main economic, administrative, and transportation hub, with a population of approximately 364,125 (2011 census).

The area was first settled by the Motu-Koitabu people thousands of years ago. The modern city was founded in 1873 by Captain John Moresby, a British naval officer who named the port after his father, Admiral Sir Fairfax Moresby. During World War II, Port Moresby played a crucial strategic role as a key Allied base in the South Pacific campaign against Japanese forces.

The city experiences a tropical savanna climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The wet season occurs from December to May, while the dry season runs from June to November. Despite its tropical location, Port Moresby receives less rainfall than many other parts of Papua New Guinea due to its position in a rain shadow.

Notable landmarks and attractions include the PNG National Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases the country's rich cultural heritage and artifacts, the Port Moresby Nature Park, home to various indigenous wildlife species, and the Parliament Haus, featuring distinctive Papua New Guinean architectural elements. The Bomana War Cemetery, the largest war cemetery in the Pacific, contains graves of Allied soldiers who died during World War II.

Port Moresby serves as the country's primary gateway for international trade and commerce, with Jackson International Airport handling most of Papua New Guinea's international flights. The city faces significant urban challenges, including rapid population growth, informal settlements, and infrastructure development needs. The economy is primarily based on government services, port activities, and the presence of regional offices for international organizations and businesses. Despite these challenges, Port Moresby continues to develop as a modern Pacific capital, hosting major regional events such as the 2015 Pacific Games and the 2018 APEC Summit.

The Facts:
Province: National Capital District.
Population: ~ 364,125 (2011 census).
LLG areas of Port Moresby: Moresby North-East, Moresby North-West, Moresby South.
Main sights: National Museum and Art Gallery, Adventure Park PNG, National Parliament House, National Orchid Garden, Ela Beach.