Featuring beautiful rolling hills and the breath-taking Alps, the small country of Austria, is embedded in the heart of Central Europe. This landlocked country is mostly mountainous, where the Alps account for 62% of its landmass. The numerous passes and valleys through the massive mountain range connects Austria with Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Lichtenstein to its west.
With a democratic parliament located in its capital Vienna, Austria is unique, as it is the only country which has declared permanent neutrality in its constitution, enacted by a federal government to its 9 states. The head of state is the Federal President, who is directly elected by popular vote. The chairman of the Federal Government is the Federal Chancellor, who is appointed by the president.rnrnInfluenced historically, the nationally recognized language of Austria is German.
Austria's Culture was shaped, not only by Germany, but also Hungary, Italy and Bohemia, with a delicious effect on its cuisine, with a resulting outcome of hearty Goulasch. Austria, nonetheless, is also known for its Viennese dishes like the mouthwatering Apfelstrudel, Kaiserschmarren, and Wienerschnitzel. Outdoor adventurers will find numerous beautifully landscaped trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months. For that heart warming adrenaline push, one can enjoy the mountains to its fullest with rock climbing, skiing and snowboarding.
Quick Facts
Population: 8,219,743
Capital: Vienna
Per-capita GDP: $ 42400
Size: 83,871 km2
Time Zone: (GMT + 01:00 hour) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Country information is adapted from public domain resources including the CIA World Fact Book and www.Wikipedia.org.
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