The word capital derives from the Latin word caput (genitive capitis), meaning 'head', later borrowed from Medieval Latin capitālis ('of the head'). The Latin phrase Roma Caput Mundi meaning 'Rome capital of the world' (lit. … See more

Many modern capital cities are located near the centre of the country, so that they are more accessible to its population and have better … See more

A few nation-states have multiple capitals, and there are also several states that have no capital. Some have a city as the capital but with most government agencies elsewhere. See more

The capital city is usually but not always a primary target in a war, as capturing it usually guarantees capture of much of the enemy … See more

Historically, the major economic centre of a state or region has often become the focal point of political power, and became a capital through See more

Governing entities sometimes plan, design and build new capital cities to house the seat of government of a polity or of a subdivision. … See more

With the rise of the modern nation-state, the capital city has become a symbol for the state and its government, and imbued with political meaning. Unlike medieval capitals, which were … See more