Saint Pierre & Miquelon
TerritoryAbout
Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a French overseas collectivity located off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. It consists of an archipelago with a total area of 93 square miles, comprising the islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. Saint-Pierre, with its 10 square miles, serves as the administrative and commercial center, housing nearly 90% of the population. The islands have a mild, humid climate with significant precipitation and limited forest cover due to historical deforestation for fuel. The territory has a rich history, first settled by European fishermen in the 17th century. It has changed hands between France and Britain several times, with France retaining control since 1816. Today, Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a self-governing territory with French citizenship for its residents. The economy is primarily based on fishing, although there are efforts to diversify into tourism. The population of about 5,600 residents maintains strong French cultural ties and participates in French national elections.
