Exploring Micronations: Hidden Kingdoms You’ve Never Heard Of

Most people think of countries as fixed and official — members of the UN, with flags and embassies and borders on the map.

But what if we told you there are hundreds of tiny self-declared nations around the world… some no larger than a backyard?

Welcome to the strange, imaginative, and surprisingly serious world of micronations — self-proclaimed kingdoms, republics, and empires that operate outside of mainstream recognition.

Let’s take a tour of some of the most fascinating ones, and what they tell us about identity, politics, and human creativity.

What Is a Micronation?

A micronation is a small, self-declared entity that claims to be an independent nation but isn’t officially recognized by governments or major international bodies.

Unlike microstates (like Monaco or San Marino), micronations are often symbolic, satirical, or experimental — but many have:

• Their own flags and anthems
• Invented currencies and stamps
• Elected leaders or monarchs
• “Citizens” from around the world

Some are created for fun. Others are political statements. A few take themselves very seriously.

The Principality of Sealand (UK)

Perhaps the most famous micronation, Sealand occupies a World War II sea fort off the coast of England.

In 1967, it was claimed by a British man named Paddy Roy Bates, who declared it independent and gave himself the title of prince.

Claim to fame:
It has its own passports, a national motto, and even repelled an attempted invasion.

The Republic of Molossia (USA)

Located in the Nevada desert, the Republic of Molossia is a tongue-in-cheek nation founded by Kevin Baugh, who serves as “His Excellency.”

Despite its humorous tone, Molossia has laws, a space program (sort of), and even claims to be at war with East Germany (yes, still).

Visitors are welcome — just don’t forget your “passport.”

The Empire of Atlantium (Australia)

Founded in 1981 by three teenagers, Atlantium now claims over 3,000 citizens from more than 100 countries.

It promotes progressive global values like personal sovereignty, and its “capital” is a 0.76-square-kilometer property in rural Australia.

This micronation is more idealistic than comedic.

The Grand Duchy of Westarctica (Antarctica)

Westarctica claims a slice of unclaimed land in Antarctica — an area between Chilean and Australian territories that no recognized country has laid claim to.

Its mission is to promote environmental protection and polar research, and it has named ministers, dukes, and barons around the globe.

It’s a micronation with a mission.

Liberland (Between Croatia and Serbia)

Founded in 2015, Liberland claims a 7-square-kilometer patch of disputed land along the Danube River.

Its founder, a Czech politician named Vít Jedlička, wants to build a libertarian utopia with minimal taxes and maximum freedom.

Though it’s been blocked from developing the land so far, thousands have applied for citizenship.

Why Do People Create Micronations?

Micronations serve many purposes:

• Political protest: A way to criticize bureaucracy, taxation, or global politics
• Artistic expression: Part performance art, part immersive storytelling
• Community-building: Uniting like-minded people with shared values
• Experimentation: Testing new ideas of governance, economy, or society

They often blend satire with sincerity — raising serious questions under the cover of fun.

Can You Start Your Own?

Technically? Yes.

Anyone can declare independence. The hard part is getting recognized — and that’s where micronations usually remain in a legal gray zone.

But that hasn’t stopped people from launching backyard republics, apartment-sized empires, or digital nations online.

All you need is:

• A defined “territory”
• A name, flag, and motto
• A mission or reason for existing
• A community (even if it’s just you at first)

Some even offer citizenship, issue novelty passports, and host virtual summits.

Final Thoughts

Micronations may be small in size, but they’re big in imagination. They blend politics, art, identity, and humor in ways that challenge how we think about what a “nation” really is.

Whether you’re interested in visiting one, joining one, or starting your own, these hidden kingdoms offer a glimpse into a quirky and often profound side of global culture.

In a world of giant governments and rigid borders, micronations remind us that the spirit of independence is alive and well — even if it only takes up a couple acres.