# Sylhet > capital and largest city of Sylhet Division, Bangladesh **Wikidata**: [Q466221](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q466221) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sylhet) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sylhet ## Summary Sylhet is a place in Sylhet District in Bangladesh. It was established in 1867. ## Summary Sylhet is a large city and administrative center in Bangladesh, serving as the capital of Sylhet Division and Sylhet District. Founded in 1867, it is known for its cultural significance, with the Sylheti language and script being indigenous to the region. The city has a population of approximately 479,837 (as of 2011) and covers an area of 26.50 square kilometers. ## Key Facts - **Classification**: Sylhet is a city with a population of at least 100,000, making it a "big city" in Bangladesh. - **Administrative Role**: It serves as the capital of Sylhet Division, Sylhet District, and Sylhet Sadar Upazila. - **Geographical Location**: Situated in Sylhet District, Bangladesh, with coordinates at 24.9° N, 91.8667° E. - **Area**: Covers 26.50 square kilometers. - **Population**: Estimated at 479,837 (2011). - **Elevation**: Approximately 35 meters above sea level. - **Postal Code**: 3100. - **Languages**: The Sylheti language is spoken, alongside Pnar, War, and Meitei as regional languages. - **Demonyms**: Residents are referred to as Sylheti, Syloti, Srihattan, and others, depending on the context. - **Historical Names**: Known historically as Srihatta Nagar and Silhet. - **Inception**: Officially recognized in 1867. - **Notable Landmarks**: Includes Keane Bridge, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, and Sylhet District Stadium. - **Media Presence**: Home to newspapers like Sylhet Protidin and Daily Sabuj Sylhet. - **Economic Focus**: The economy of Sylhet is a distinct topic of study. - **Cultural Identity**: The Sylheti script, developed around the 14th century, is used for writing the Sylheti language. ## FAQs - **What makes Sylhet unique in Bangladesh?** Sylhet stands out due to its distinct cultural identity, with the Sylheti language and script being indigenous to the region. It serves as a key administrative center for Sylhet Division and District, and its historical significance as Srihatta Nagar adds to its cultural heritage. - **What are the major landmarks in Sylhet?** Key landmarks include Keane Bridge, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet District Stadium, and Shah Jalal Dargah. The city also features notable structures like Ali Amjad's Clock and Sylhet Railway Station. - **What languages are spoken in Sylhet?** The primary language is Sylheti, with Pnar, War, and Meitei also spoken as regional languages. Meitei is recognized as a regional language, while Sylheti, Pnar, and War are considered first languages. - **What is the population of Sylhet?** As of 2011, Sylhet had a population of 479,837. Earlier estimates included a population of 463,198 in 2008. - **What is the Sylheti script?** The Sylheti script is a Brahmic abugida used for writing the Sylheti language. It was developed around the 14th century and is distinct from other scripts in Bangladesh. - **What newspapers are published in Sylhet?** Sylhet is home to newspapers such as Sylhet Protidin, Daily Sabuj Sylhet, and Shyamal Sylhet, which serve as local media outlets. ## Why It Matters Sylhet holds significant cultural and administrative importance in Bangladesh. As the capital of Sylhet Division and District, it serves as a hub for governance and regional development. The city's historical roots as Srihatta Nagar and its unique Sylheti language and script highlight its distinct cultural identity. The presence of educational institutions like Shahjalal University of Science and Technology underscores its role in higher education. Additionally, Sylhet's media landscape, including newspapers like Sylhet Protidin, reflects its importance in local communication and information dissemination. ## Notable For - **Administrative Capital**: Serves as the capital of Sylhet Division, Sylhet District, and Sylhet Sadar Upazila. - **Cultural Heritage**: Home to the Sylheti language and script, which are indigenous to the region. - **Educational Hub**: Hosts Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, a prominent public university. - **Historical Significance**: Known historically as Srihatta Nagar, reflecting its ancient roots. - **Media Presence**: Publishes local newspapers like Sylhet Protidin and Daily Sabuj Sylhet. - **Unique Landmarks**: Features notable structures such as Keane Bridge and Ali Amjad's Clock. - **Regional Languages**: Recognizes Sylheti, Pnar, War, and Meitei as significant languages in the region. ## Body ### Administration and Governance Sylhet serves as the capital of Sylhet Division, Sylhet District, and Sylhet Sadar Upazila. The city is governed by the Sylhet City Corporation, which oversees local administrative functions. It is located in Sylhet District, Bangladesh, and has a postal code of 3100. ### Geography and Demographics Sylhet is situated at coordinates 24.9° N, 91.8667° E, with an elevation of 35 meters above sea level. The city covers an area of 26.50 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 479,837 (2011). Earlier population estimates include 463,198 in 2008. ### Cultural Identity The city is known for its distinct cultural identity, particularly the Sylheti language and script. The Sylheti script, a Brahmic abugida, was developed around the 14th century and is used for writing the Sylheti language. Residents are referred to by various demonyms, including Sylheti, Syloti, and Srihattan. ### Education and Institutions Sylhet hosts Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, a public university founded in 1987. The university plays a significant role in higher education within the region. Additionally, Sylhet Women's Medical College, established in 2005, contributes to medical education. ### Landmarks and Infrastructure Key landmarks in Sylhet include Keane Bridge, Sylhet District Stadium (established in 1965), and Ali Amjad's Clock. The city also features Shah Jalal Dargah and Sylhet Railway Station, which serve as important transportation hubs. ### Media and Communication Sylhet is home to several newspapers, including Sylhet Protidin (headquartered in Sylhet) and Daily Sabuj Sylhet, which serves as a Bengali language newspaper. Shyamal Sylhet, established in 2001, is another notable publication in the region. ### Economic and Regional Significance The economy of Sylhet is a distinct topic of study, reflecting its role as a regional economic center. The city's media presence and educational institutions contribute to its economic development and cultural influence. ### Historical Context Sylhet has historical significance as Srihatta Nagar, with references dating back to the 19th century. The city's inception in 1867 marks its formal recognition as an administrative and cultural center. ## References 1. Virtual International Authority File 2. [Source](https://lingualibre.org/wiki//Q352243) 3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 4. [Source](http://www.citypopulation.info/Bangladesh-Mun.html) 5. Flickr Shapefiles Public Dataset 2.0 6. GeoNames 7. BBC Things 8. The City in South Asia (Section: The sacred city and the fort). Taylor & Francis. 2008 9. [Source](https://incubator.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wp/syl/ꠍꠤꠟꠐ_ꠘꠉꠞ) 10. [Source](https://www.redalyc.org/journal/6638/663872611004/html/)