Κονγκό refers to two countries in Central Africa: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of the Congo. The DRC is the larger of the two, known for its vast rainforests, rich mineral resources, and the mighty Congo River, which is one of the longest rivers in the world. The Republic of the Congo, often called Congo-Brazzaville, is smaller and located to the west of the DRC. Its capital is Brazzaville, situated directly across the river from Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC. Both countries share cultural ties and a complex history influenced by colonialism and regional conflicts.