Austria

File:Land der Berge Land am Strome instrumental.ogg

EU-Austria (orthographic projection)

EU-Austria

2011-07-09 gasometer 28

Anonym Entsatz Wien 1683

Austria, officially known as the Republic of Austria (Republik Österreich), is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It is bordered by Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. Austria covers an area of approximately 83,879 square kilometers and has a temperate and alpine climate. Its capital and largest city is Vienna, which is among the primary cultural, economic, and political centers in Austria.

History

The history of Austria dates back to the Roman Empire when the region was a frontier province known as Noricum. Throughout the centuries, Austria became a pivotal center of power, particularly during the Habsburg dynasty. The Habsburg Empire was instrumental in European politics from the 16th century until its dissolution in 1918, following the end of World War I. After the war, the Republic of Austria was established, marking the beginning of the First Austrian Republic. However, the interwar period was marked by instability, and in 1938, Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany in an event known as the Anschluss. After World War II, Austria regained its independence with the establishment of the Second Republic in 1955, following the Austrian State Treaty.

Geography

Austria is known for its varied landscape that is characterized by alpine terrain, dense forests, and numerous lakes. The Alps dominate the western and southern parts of the country, making Austria a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The Danube River, Europe's second-longest river, flows through the northern part of the country and is a significant waterway for commerce and tourism.

Politics

Austria is a federal parliamentary republic composed of nine federated states (Bundesländer). The President of Austria serves as the head of state, while the Chancellor is the head of government. The Austrian Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the National Council (Nationalrat) and the Federal Council (Bundesrat). Austria is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union (EU), and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Economy

The Austrian economy is well-developed and social market-based, with a high standard of living. Key sectors include services, industry, and agriculture. Austria is known for its skilled labor force and is a leading country in various fields such as engineering, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Tourism also plays a significant role in the economy, with Austria's scenic beauty and cultural heritage attracting visitors from around the world.

Culture

Austria has a rich cultural heritage, particularly in music, art, and architecture. It is the birthplace of many famous composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert. Vienna, the capital, is renowned for its historic architecture, including Baroque castles and gardens, as well as the 19th-century Ringstraße lined with grand buildings, monuments, and parks. Austrian cuisine is varied and influenced by various regions, with dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel being internationally recognized.

Education

Education in Austria is highly regarded and consists of a comprehensive system that includes primary, secondary, and higher education levels. The country is home to several prestigious universities, such as the University of Vienna and Graz University of Technology, which offer a wide range of programs in various fields of study.

See also

• List of cities and towns in Austria
• Austrian literature
• Music of Austria