This Asian country's official religion is included in the name of its capital city. What country, what capital city?

The capital city of this South Asian nation literally incorporates its official religion into its name. Pakistan, a country founded as a homeland (Review) for Muslims in British India, has Islam enshrined as its state religion by its constitution. Its capital, Islamabad, directly reflects this foundational principle.

The name "Islamabad" is a compound of two elements: "Islam," referring to the religion, and "-abad," a Persian suffix meaning "cultivated place," "settlement," or "city." Therefore, Islamabad essentially translates to "City of Islam." This naming convention was a deliberate choice when the city was planned and built in the 1960s, replacing Karachi as the capital.

The establishment of Islamabad as a purpose-built capital was intended to create a modern administrative hub that also symbolized Pakistan's ideological identity and its commitment to Islamic values. The city is known for its lush greenery and organized layout. The name serves as a constant reminder of the nation's roots and its aspirations, making it a unique example of a capital city whose very name embodies a core aspect of the nation's identity.