Facts about Germany

Located at the heart of Europe, Germany forms the link between the maritime west and the continental east. It is a triad of lowland plains, upland hills and mountains; from the Alps in the south, through the forested central highlands, to the north where it is bordered by the North Sea,Denmark and the Baltic Sea.
The Federal Republic of Germany covers an area of 357,022 km2 and, with a population of over 80 million, is the largest of any European country. Germany has long been a meeting place - of nations, ideologies and above all people, and many of the 16 self-governing states have their own unique traditions and dialects: a legacy from the time when the area now known as Germany was populated by various tribes such as the Franks, Saxons, Swabians or Bavarians.

Berlin, a feast of history, culture and lifestyle

With about 3.4 million inhabitants and covering an area of 889 km2, Berlin is Germany's largest city and also its capital. Once the capital of Prussia and leading cultural centre of the 1920s, few cities have been shaped by history to such an extent, or undergone as much major transformation as Berlin. "Berlin is always in the process of becoming", remarked historian Karl Scheffler, and this is one of the traits that makes it one of Europe's most vibrant, exciting and colourful capitals,now characterised by dazzling modernity and breathtaking architecture.
Although much of Berlin's heritage was destroyed during the war, the city has maintained its cultural richness by sustaining a fascinating and diverse selection of museums and monuments. Famous Berlin sights from the iconic Brandenburg Gate, with Schadow's Quadriga, to the modern Potsdamer Platz and Sir Norman Foster's reconstruction of the Reichstag are just a few of Berlin's enthralling highlights.
Berlin is also a green city, famous for its "Berliner Luft" (Berlin Air). Forests, parks and waterways cover more than one-third of the city's area, and the numerous lakes in the city centre and surrounding areas are ideal places for relaxation. There is a unique atmosphere in Berlin, and throughout the city you can experience the vitality of life on the boulevards, in the many art galleries and museums, at the flea markets and in the innumerable bars and restaurants - many of which are open around the clock. The three major universities attract increasingly more young people who appreciate the lively atmosphere of this fastmoving city, whilst the fantastic range of culture, politics, entertainment and dining mean that Berlin really does have something for everyone.