Most nations have a single capital, but a handful divide government functions between two or even three cities for historical or political reasons.
1. South Africa
South Africa has three official capitals, each serving a different branch of government.
Pretoria is the executive capital, where the president and cabinet are based. Cape Town is home to Parliament and serves as the legislative capital, while Bloemfontein houses the Supreme Court of Appeal, making it the judicial capital.
2. Bolivia
Bolivia recognizes two capital cities.
Sucre is the country’s constitutional capital and home to the Supreme Court, while La Paz serves as the seat of government, where the president, legislature, and most ministries operate.
3. Malaysia
Malaysia also divides its government between two cities.
Kuala Lumpur remains the official national capital and home to Parliament, while nearby Putrajaya was purpose-built during the 1990s to house most federal government ministries and administrative offices.
4. Montenegro
Cetinje is recognized as Montenegro’s historic royal capital.
Although the national government operates from Podgorica, Cetinje remains the official residence of the country’s president and preserves many important cultural institutions.
5. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s legislative capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, where Parliament meets.
However, nearby Colombo continues to function as the country’s commercial center and remains home to many government ministries and diplomatic missions.
6. Eswatini
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, uses two capitals.
Mbabane serves as the administrative capital, while Lobamba functions as the royal and legislative capital, hosting Parliament and major traditional ceremonies.