Dili is the capital and largest city of Timor-Leste (East Timor), located on the northern coast of the island of Timor, at the eastern end of the Lesser Sunda Islands. As the administrative and commercial heart of the country, Dili is the central hub for domestic politics, finance, and culture. Dili was settled about 1520 by the Portuguese, who made it the capital of Portuguese Timor until 1975. The city faced significant upheaval and reconstruction following Indonesian occupation and subsequent independence in 2002. Since its independence, Dili has undergone a process of redevelopment and modernization, though it still retains its colonial-era charm mixed with Timorese culture. Key landmarks include the Cristo Rei of Dili statue, the Timorese Resistance Archive and Museum, and the beachfront areas that attract locals and visitors alike. Dili also serves as a gateway to the diverse natural landscapes of Timor-Leste, including tropical forests, mountain ranges, and coral reefs, making it a popular starting point for eco-tourism and adventure travel.
