Antarctica

Antarctica possesses a massive land area of 14 million square kilometers, making it the fifth-largest continent. However, its permanent population is extremely low (1,300 people), resulting in the lowest population density globally, highlighting its unique status as a scientific reserve rather than a sovereign state.

Unlike nearly every other geographical entity of its size, Antarctica is explicitly listed without a capital city. This absence underscores its unique governance structure under the Antarctic Treaty System, prioritizing scientific research and international cooperation over national sovereignty and traditional administrative centers.

The reported population of 1,300 represents a highly variable, non-permanent demographic primarily consisting of scientists and support staff. This population is heavily concentrated during the warmer summer months (Austral Summer) and drastically shrinks in the harsh winter, creating a unique seasonal demographic cycle unseen in traditional nations.

With an area of 14 million square kilometers, Antarctica is geographically immense. It is significantly larger than Europe (approx. 10.18 million km²) but smaller than Asia (approx. 44.6 million km²), positioning it as a major global landmass primarily defined by ice cover and extreme climate.