Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central Europe. It is bordered by nine countries: Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, France to the southwest, and Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands to the west. The country has a population of more than 83 million people, making it the most populous nation in the European Union.
Germany is one of the largest economies in the world, known for its automotive industry including renowned brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volkswagen. It is also famous for its precision engineering and high-tech products. The country is a leader in several industrial and technological sectors.
The capital city is Berlin, which is known for its art scene, nightlife, and modern architecture. Other major cities include Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, and Frankfurt. Germany is a democratic parliamentary federal republic, composed of sixteen states, each with its own constitution.
Germany has a rich history, ranging from the Roman Empire, through the Middle Ages, to both World Wars, and its eventual reunification in 1990 after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It also boasts cultural heritage globally recognized through composers like Bach and Beethoven, and philosopher like Kant and Nietzsche.
The country has varied landscapes, from the northern plains that stretch up to the North Sea and Baltic Sea, central highlands, to mountain ranges in the south. It has several rivers like the Rhine, Danube and Elbe.
Germany is also known for its beer, with the country hosting the world-renowned Oktoberfest, and its sausages, with over a thousand varieties. The country is a key player in international relations and has played a significant role in the European Union.
