Geographic Location
Location in Africa: Eritrea is located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, Djibouti to the southeast, and the Red Sea to the northeast and east.
Latitude and Longitude: 15°00′N, 39°00′E.
Size: Approximately 121,320 square kilometers.
Population
Current Population (2025): Estimated at 6.4 million.
Economy
GDP (2025):
- Nominal GDP: $4.04 billion.
- GDP per capita: Approximately $567.
National Symbols
Anthem: “Ertra, Ertra, Ertra” (Eritrea, Eritrea, Eritrea).
National Pledge: Eritrea does not have an official national pledge.
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Tigrinya (50%) and Tigre (30%), with smaller groups like Saho, Afar, Kunama, and others.
Languages: Tigrinya, Arabic, and English are working languages, with several indigenous languages also spoken.
Religion: Christianity (Eritrean Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant) and Islam are the two main religions, each followed by about half the population.
Customs: Traditional coffee ceremonies are a significant cultural practice. Eritrean cuisine features dishes like injera with spicy stews, and Italian influences are evident in pasta dishes.
Main Airports
- Asmara International Airport (ASM): The primary international gateway.
- Massawa International Airport: Serves the coastal region.
- Assab International Airport: Located in the southern Red Sea region.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Asmara: Known for its Art Deco architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Dahlak Archipelago: A group of islands in the Red Sea, popular for diving and marine life.
- Massawa: A historic port city with Ottoman and Italian influences.
- Qohaito: Ancient ruins and archaeological sites.
- Filfil Rainforest: A lush area with diverse wildlife.
Events and Festivals
- Independence Day (May 24): Celebrates Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1993.
- Religious Festivals: Both Christian and Islamic holidays are widely observed.
- Asmara Carnival: A vibrant cultural event showcasing music, dance, and traditional attire.
Practical Information
Calling Code: +291.
Country Domain: .er.
Currency: Nakfa (ERN)