There are many countries in the world. Can you believe that one of the smallest countries in the world is not marked on any official map? It’s like it doesn’t exist. Yet this country has a currency, a flag and even its own government. And, of course, a people. It may surprise you to learn that such a country is smaller than a single football field. Don’t you believe it? Believe it.

It’s a country you’ll find on a naval fortress in the North Sea. Specifically, six miles off the coast of England. This country is not recognised as a state by other nations. Yet it has its own flag, currency and even armed conflict. The story, which is beyond belief, began to be written in 1965 with Paddy Roy Bates. It was he who purchased an offshore platform that had been built during World War II to protect the coast from German bombers.

History of the micro-state

During the 1960s, radio stations thrived in international waters broadcasting something that violated British broadcasting regulations. Bates operated Radio Essex on an abandoned military fort. The government cracked down on such stations. Bates didn’t hesitate. He bought the fort as a birthday present for his wife Joan and declared the fort an independent sovereign state. He called it Sealand and named himself prince.

Subsequently, the whole family moved to the small piece of land. She officially claimed sovereignty over her small territory. Since then, this piece of land has been known as one of the smallest countries in the world. In September 1975, Prince Roy proclaimed the constitution of the Principality of Sealand. Over time, it then developed a national anthem, as well as stamps and gold and silver coins called Sealand dollars. Principality passports were made to those who contributed to the creation of the state and its continuation.

E Mare, Libertas

From the sea, freedom. This is the motto of the micronation over which Prince Michael and his three children and second wife reflect love. It is they who continue the Sealand dynasty. Indeed, today Sealand brings together a thriving community from all over the world. It is the philosophy of freedom, self-determination and adventure that binds them together.

Sealand in sport

For almost sixty years, the Principality of Sealand has been building its culture. Today, the microstate even has several national sports teams. They compete internationally in an ever-increasing number of sports. According to official information, the state is represented by two American football teams, and in the summer there is a charity swimming event. Sealand also has its people among the climbers. The team has carried the Sealand flag to 4 of the 7 highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. They also compete in curling, ice hockey and long distance running under the Sealand flag.

An environmentally friendly state

It is certainly interesting that Sealand has achieved the status of one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world. In fact, 99.9% of the state’s electricity comes from renewable sources, through a combination of wind turbines and solar panels. The freshwater supply comes entirely from rainfall. Indeed, there is plenty of rain in the kingdom.

Anyone can be a citizen

Are you interested in this ecological state, which also has representatives in sport? You too can become a citizen. Applications are now open and only a limited number are available. What do you get with citizenship? An electronic ID for your phone, a free and secure VPN for digital freedom, a personalized email address, plus you’ll be removing trash from the ocean. You’ll be an e-citizen, and you might even be able to visit Sealand on vacation someday. But there’s a price to pay for citizenship.