Tuesday, September 22, 2009

10 Great Places To Go To When You Visit Austria




Austria is one of the countries in Europe having a rich and dramatic history, and its landscapes are dotted with historical landmarks such as medieval fortresses, castles, churches, etc. Moreover, Austria is also home to many great people from composers to military leaders, from poets to musicians. Because of this, you can indeed expect a fantastic vacation should you go and visit this place, sohere are ten great places to go to in Austria:

1.) Hofburg Imperial Palace

The Hofburg Imperial Palace was built during the late 13th century and still stands today as a testament to the power and wealth of this mighty political family. In this palace, you will find the offices of the President of Austria, the countries international convention center, the famous Spanish Riding School and its Lipizzan stallions. There are also museums that are open to the public.

2.) Grossglockner Alpine Road

The Grossglockner alpine road is one of the most visited alpine roads in the continent. It ends in the highest mountain in Austria where its largest glacier is also located. In fact, since the mid 1930’s, this famous road has been visited by over 50 million people eager to see its spectacular views.

3.) Carnutinum Archaeological Museum

Carnutinum was once the most important of Roman towns in the Alps. It was founded sometime during the 6th century AD and has seen about 5000 inhabitants under the Roman Empire. Today, this town houses the largest collection of Roman artifacts ranging from Roman jewelry, roman arms and coins, landmarks such as amphitheatres and baths as well as other religious objects from the Roman religion of Mithras worship.

4.) Eisriesenwelt Caves

The Eisriesenwelt caves showcase extraordinary rock and ice formations, majestic towers and columns and even an underground glacier and waterfall. It was discovered sometime during the late 1870’s by Anton Posselt and since then has attracted thousands of tourists from all around the world. Today, it is considered as one of the largest ice cave in the world.

5.) Graz

The Graz is perhaps the most famous center for culture, architecture and art. In fact, it was been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the historical value of the place. Here, tourists will also get to experience the vibrant nightlife that Gratz is well known for.

6.) Salzburg

Salzburg is well known for its number of churches. In fact, it is also named as the Rome of the North because of this. Aside from this, Salzburg is also known for its old streets, festivals, the Mirabell Palace, the hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mozarteum.

7.) Innsbruck

Innsbruck is well known as a vacation destination in winter. This is because the place is situated between two imposing mountainsides ideal for winter sports such as snowboarding and skiing. Not only that, Innsbruck is also a popular tourist destination even in the summer months because it is ideal for mountaineering and ecotours.

8.) Vienna

Vienna is one of the greatest and most historic cities in Western Europe. It is birthplace of Austria’s most famous rulers and some of the most famous composers of classical music. Vienna also boasts of such tourist destinations as St Stephen’s Cathedral and Vienna Woods.

9.) The Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is called the Ars Electronica. This museum is also well known for its stunning collection of modern technology. As such, this has become a tourist spot.

10.) Hohe Tauern National Park

One of the last natural wilderness areas in Europe, this park is well known for its flora and fauna. Here you will see animals such as Mountain goats, ibex, chamois, a wide variety of birds, sheep, etc. You also get to enjoy nature at its finest with your loved ones.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Seeing The Sights Of Austria



Austria has a rich history and has managed to maintain many of the old buildings and architecture that go along with it. The country is small and nestled between Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. The largest city is Vienna, which has a rich cultural history, restaurants, and a diverse cultural mix that resulted from different wars and from the immigration of people from nearby countries.

When planning a trip to Vienna, you should consider visiting the city's Museum Quarter, which offers art museums, history museums, and the Sigmund Freud Museum. You can also visit Schonbrunn Palace, which is outside the city, but accessible by the metro system. While most people stay in Vienna, there are many other cities including Salzburg, Gratz, and Innsbruck. Each have their own vibrant history as well.

There have been many famous authors, musicians, and scientists that lived and worked in Austria. You will be able to visit their birthplaces, and places they loved to go when not working. Walking tours are available. If staying in Salzburg, you will be able to take the 'Sound of Music Tour', which is a walking tour that has themes from the movie. The Mirabell Palace and Gardens is another popular tourist attraction for those who visit Salzburg.

With an active winter season, there are many places to ski in the Austrian Alps and enjoy the outdoors. You can stay at a lodge or just go skiing for the day. Other pastimes in Austria include ice skating, soccer, and ice hockey. You will be able to attend matches depending on the time of year that you visit. For those who enjoy sports, especially winter sports, there is much do to in Austria.

Austrian cuisine is considered some of the best food in the world. There are many styles that have melded together to create this cuisine. You should try wiener schnitzel, erdapfel salat, a potato dish, tafelspitz, a beef dish, cheese Danish, and kaiserschmarrn, which is a traditional Austrian dessert during your stay. You will be able to choose between small cafes, fine dining, or larger family style dining. After a long day of sightseeing, having a good, hearty meal is very comforting.

As you can see, there is plenty to see, do, and eat during your stay in Austria. You will be able to see a lot of historical buildings and get a better understanding of how Austria changed after WWI and WWII. There have been many political and religious changes that have happened during Austria’s history. You will be able to see evidence of these changes in the building and in the people themselves. With walking tours, palaces, museums, outdoor activities including skiing and horseback riding, you will have a wonderful trip to Austria.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Austria More Than A Winter Destination



When I think of Austria, the first thing that comes to my mind is the Austrian Alps. Maybe just about everyone knows that Austria is one of the best places to go during the winter. It has countless winter resorts with amazing surroundings, perfect ski tracks suitable for all ages and difficulties and many more sport facilities in case you are not into skiing. For the tired skier or just for everyone who would like to relax and have fun, there are many suitable places to do it – from big swimming pools to hot bath-tubs and restaurants with specialties from around the world.

But if you think that Austria is only for the winter … think again!
If you prefer taking a holiday especially for skiing, you can do so even in the summer with the help of the gorgeous Austrian glaciers. One of the most famous glaciers is the one in the Stubai Valley – the Stubai Glacier. It is visible even from the road and can be a remarkable view even for non-skiers. Other perfect places for skiing in the summer are the Kaprun Glacier and Pasterze Glacier, which unfortunately is decreasing in size in the last years. And if you are keen on the big things than the largest glacier in Austria is for you – the Hintertux glacier.

In Austria there are also magnificent hiking trails, revealing a huge part of the country beauties. A beautiful place is Zell am See with its Hohe Tauern mountain range, the Zeller Lake and its belonging marked trails, suitable for both beginners and experts. There is also available biking, sailing and more. I am not going to give more examples of hiking trails because they are numerous in almost every resort in Austria and they surely bring the atmosphere of the amazing nature there.

If you are a nature lover I can recommend here only a small fraction of the many nature reserves in Austria. One of them is located just north of the city Innsbruck – the Karwendel nature reserve. The Karwendel mountain range is part of the Alps and can reveal many breath-taking types of scenery. Another one is the Pürgschachener Moor Nature Reserve which is in Styria, near Irdning / Ennstal and offers wonderful moments in fresh air. One can also visit the National Park Nockberge – part of the oldest mountain regions in Austria.

No matter where you are from, keep in mind while planning your holiday that nature is always perfect in every season. And I can assure you that one of the best places to go and see it is Austria. Whether you like skiing, hiking, looking from the top of a high mountain or just relaxing under the sun on the bank of a lake – it is all there just for you.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Austrian Alps - Make Your Vacation Unique



The Alps is a majestic and world famous mountain range that is divided into the Western and the Eastern Alps. A breathtaking place to spend a vacation, this mountain range provides stunning views as well as recreational facilities such as winter sports like skiing. The Western Alps, which are the higher of the mountains, are located in European destinations such as Italy, France, and Switzerland. The broader and longer Eastern Alps can also be found in Italy and Switzerland as well as in Austria, Germany, and Slovenia. When you visit the Alps as your holiday destination you will be in for a real treat, as not only will you find yourself in a destination where you can enjoy exhilarating activities ranging from snow sports to climbing and hiking, but also in a place where you can really relax, take in incredible surroundings, and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime in a destination that is likely to stick in your memory for many years to come. Anyone that wants a unique vacation in a European destination will find the Alps area has something really special to offer.

Select from the Alps resort of your choice

Because the Alps mountain range spans a number of fabulous European destinations you can select the Alpine resort that best meets your needs and tastes. Each of these resorts offers character, beauty, culture, history, and recreational opportunities, so you just can’t go wrong when you decide to opt for this type of vacation. Even those that do not want to visit for the recreational facilities or the breathtaking views can enjoy a range of amenities and facilities from dining and nightlife to shopping and easy access to nearby towns and cities for further exploration. A truly magical experience, a holiday in an Alpine resort is one that every member of your group or family will be thrilled with. If you decide to enjoy a vacation in this type of resort consider what other areas you would like to visit in order to determine which resort to opt for. For example, perhaps you would enjoy a visit to Munich or Bavaria then a resort in Germany could prove ideal for you, enabling you to combine your resort break with a visit to some great European cities.

Enjoy the culture and excitement of an Alpine resort

When you opt for an Alpine resort for your vacation you will find that there is something for everyone, from the outdoor enthusiast and sightseer to the culture seeker and the fun-lover. You can combine rest and relaxation with adventure, fun, and excitement, and you will enjoy some incredible photo opportunities. An array of eateries in each of the Alpine resorts throughout Europe will enable visitors to enjoy a choice of cuisine to suit all tastes and needs, and you can enjoy a choice of accommodations such as chalets, lodges, apartments, and hotels, which means that you can find lodgings to suit all needs and budgets. An alpine resort is the ideal choice for those that want to enjoy a European vacation with a real difference, enjoying easy access to some fascinating areas as well as being surrounding be incredible scenery.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Consider Salzburg For Your Next Vacation




Located to the North of the Alps and along the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg, Austria, is a city that lies around three hundred kilometres from Vienna and boasts everything from charm and culture to history and beauty. You will find Salzburg just one hundred and fifty kilometres to the east of Munich, so the city enjoys a convenient location between major areas and amidst breathtaking beauty and landscapes. From rolling mountain scenery to fabulous architecture towards the inner city, there is plenty to explore and take in when you visit this destination. Admire the fabulous architecture of the baroque towers and churches that adorn the city, admire the cathedral, and visit the many historical points of significance nearby such as Eagle’s Nest, which was Hitler’s retreat. Getting around is easy and you can enjoy efficient train services to places such as Munich and Vienna as well as easy access around the city. This makes sightseeing and travel around the city convenient and simple for visitors.

Enjoy one of the most fascinating cities in Europe when you visit Salzburg, Austria

For many, Salzburg is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe thanks to its rich history, diverse culture, beautiful surroundings, and interesting architecture. The city enjoys a number of claims to fame, from once being home to the famous composer Mozart to being the location of the world famous blockbuster movie ‘The Sound of Music’. With this type of background, visitors can enjoy even more in terms of entertainment and activities. Pay a visit to the house and residence of Mozart, and see the many monuments erected in memory of this famous son of Salzburg. The excellent location of this city also makes it ideal for a range of outdoor recreational activities, which means that you can visit Salzburg at any time of the year and still find plenty to keep you busy. You can enjoy activities such as skiing, which in the winter months swells the number of people coming through the airport. You can enjoy a range of other outdoor activities throughout the year, from biking and sightseeing to picnicking.

A vacation to Salzburg, Austria is one you will remember for many years to come

The unique character and charm coupled with the vibrant atmosphere and diverse culture that you will find in this city means that you will enjoy a truly memorable and unique vacation. A range of festivities and events take place in Salzburg throughout the year, and these can help add to your appreciation of the city and your overall experience, enabling you to sample the local lifestyle and culture as well as have some fun and excitement. Some of the events and festivities you can look forward to, depending on the time of year you visit, include the famous Salzburg Festival and the Easter Festival. You will find a great choice of shops and eateries here too, so you can enjoy a little retails therapy and everything from a light snack to a full meal. With accommodation available throughout the city, finding lodgings ranging from friendly bed & breakfasts to big name hotels will also prove easy and convenient.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Travel To Austria – Your Year-Round Travel Destination




So you want to travel to Austria. Well, you've made a wise choice. Austria is considered one of the top year-round travel destinations. Because of its beautiful Alps, winter sports are quite popular in Austria, providing Austria with high tourist attendance in the winter and giving you a reason to travel to Austria any time of the year.

If you want to travel to Austria, here are some quick facts you should know when you go.

Austria – The Region
A land-locked country, Austria is located in Central Europe. It is a mountainous country with an area of 83,855 km2. Austria consists of nine provinces: Vorarlberg, Tyrol, Salzburg, Carinthia, Styria, Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Burgenland, and Vienna. Approximately 99% of Austrians are of Germanic ethnic origin and 78% are Roman Catholics. As for the terrain, the Alps occupy the southern and western regions of the country, and numerous forests, valleys, lakes, and rivers can be found throughout Austria.

The Weather
When you travel to Austria, it's important to have an idea about the weather and Austria's seasons. Austria has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Summers are generally warm and pleasant with cool nights. Rain does occur during the summer season but the showers are normally short. Austria's winters are sunny, with reliable and frequent snowfalls. Winters are also cold and accompanied by warm and dry winds in some parts. However the weather overall is changeable throughout the year, so when you travel to Austria, pack appropriately.

The Culture
When you travel to Austria, you'll quickly realize why Austria is widely recognized for its rich cultural past and present. Austria's affluence of artistic achievements is obvious in its architecture and structures like the Stephansdom (Saint Stephen`s Cathedral), Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, the "Goldene Dachl" in Innsbruck, Melk Abbey, and the "Loos-Haus" or the "Hundertwasser-Haus". Austria is also the birthplace of composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Franz Schubert, Johann Strauss Jr., Johann Strauss Sr., and Johannes Brahms. Like most European countries, Austria has a rich culture and affluence that awaits anyone who decides to visit.

The Activities
If you pre-plan your activities for your trip to Austria, here's a heads up. Because of Austria's mountainous terrain, two of the more popular activities for tourists tend to be skiing in the winter and hiking. There are a number of different resorts to fulfill your skiing desires. If you prefer flat terrain to hills, cross-country skiing opportunities are also available anywhere where there's sufficient snow and few buildings. As for hiking, there are thousands of kilometers of hiking trails that will allow you to explore the Alps and its breathtaking views. If you're looking for things to do when you travel Austria, skiing in the winter and hiking are two very popular and exciting Austrian activities for tourists.

Austria has a lot to offer travelers and those who want to travel Austria. From its rich culture to mountain activities, Austria is the answer to those who want to travel in Europe year-round.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Guide To Salzburg Austria



Salzburg, Austria is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Mozart. The city is home to numerous music and drama festivals throughout the year. The movie The Sound of Music was filmed in this city and is a popular tourist attraction. The alpine setting of this city gives it a unique charm. There are many sites to see and lots to do here.

Accommodations

There are many hotels in the city to fit every taste and budget. Prices vary widely from many affordable hotels to more luxury hotels with higher price tags. The internet is a good source of reviews of the many hotels in the city. You can view pictures and read descriptions of the various hotels before choosing your accommodations.

Vacation packages are available online or through a travel agent. These can save money, compared to booking your flight and accommodations separately. Do some research before visiting a travel agent or booking online into some of the hotels available in the city. Decide if you want to be in the inner city or farther out.

Sightseeing

Salzburg’s Old City is the center of the city and the most historic area. It is considered one of the most aesthetically beautiful cities in Europe. The area has many old footbridges to walk and pedestrian only areas for sightseeing. Horse and buggy tours of the area are also available. If you need a break from the city, consider walking the many paths outside the city to relax and enjoy the quiet and beauty of nature.

Salzburg is home to many old churches, most in the Baroque style. The cathedral in the center of town dates back to the 17th century. The architecture of these old churches gives the city its unique character. Some to see include: St. Sebastian’s, St. Michaels, St. Johns and St. Peter’s Abbey.

Mozart’s Birthplace has been renovated to the original apartments inhabited by the family. The room where he was born and the room where he composed most of his famous works are still open for tours. Guided tours are available the first Sunday of each moth. This is where the composer lived until 1773. Mozart’s Residence is located nearby and is where he lived from 1773 to 1780. There are exhibits related to the family and the works of Mozart.

Fans of the Sound of Music often love visiting Salzburg. The movie was filmed here. You can tour locations throughout the city that were featured in the film. A tour bus playing music from the movie takes you around to all the locations featured in the film.

Mirabelle Palace is open for tour. The ornate palace is also home to amazing gardens with statues of mythical figures. Heckentheater on the West Side is the oldest Hedge Theater north of the Alps. This was constructed in the 1700s as an outdoor theatre. On the same site is the Zivergegarten, which is a dwarf garden.

Hohensalzburg Fortress is another popular tourist attraction in the city. The fortress was first constructed in the year 1077 and expansions were done in 1160 and again in the 15th and 16th centuries during the Hungarian War. This is the largest fortress in all of central Europe. It was very effective and was never conquered by enemy armies. The fortress is open year round for tours.

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Visiting Vienna Austria



Vienna Austria is the country’s capital and is located on the scenic River Danube. This city was the political center of the Austrian Empire and is home to ornate palaces and museums. Many of these were built for or by the Hapsburg family and trace the family history as well as the country’s history.

Visiting Vienna

The city has many hotels and other accommodations near the airport and in surrounding areas. There are hotels in every price range. The inner city is home to monuments and parks that are popular tourist attractions. Old, ornate churches can be found here as well as other building such as Parliament, the University and Opera house.

When planning your trip, be aware that most attractions are closed on public holidays in the city. Public holidays include: January 1, January 6, the Monday after Easter, May 1, Ascension Thursday, The Feast of Corpus Christi, August 15, November 1, December 8, December 25 and 26. Just about all museums, palaces and many shops are closed on these days.

Museums

o Kuntshall Wien is a museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art. The artists are both Austrian and International artists. This museum is run by the city of Vienna.

o The Sigmund Freud Museum is dedicated to the Father of Modern Psychology. It is run by the Sigmund Freud Society and traces the doctor’s life and work.

o Austrian Gallery Belvedere was built for Prince Eugene of Savoy as a summer home. It is now open for tours and contains art work and historical information. The gardens are spectacular and are also open for touring.

Palaces in Vienna

Vienna is home to several palaces built for the Hapsburg family. The Imperial Palace is located in the inner city and it was from here that the Hapsburgs ruled for seven centuries. It was constructed in the early 13th century. The Gothic chapel on the site is still open on Sundays for services. The Vienna Boy’s Choir sings here. The palace is open for tours during the week.

The Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephens is located near the Imperial Palace. Construction on this ornate cathedral was started in the thirteenth century and completed in the fifteenth century. The steeple of St. Stephens can be seen from all over the city.

Schonbrunn Palace was built as a summer residence for Empress Sisi. The grounds include a park, zoo and large labyrinth that are open for tour as well as an ornate, Baroque style palace. There is so much to see at this palace that you should plan an entire day here.

The Belvedere Palace is also built in the Baroque style. This palace was the heart of the former Hapsburg empire. The Austrian Gallery Belvedere is located here. In addition to viewing the artwork, you can tour the palace and gardens.

The Imperial Burial Vault is located below the Capuchin Church and is open for tours. This was the burial place for members of the Hapsburg family. The vault contains 146 aristocrats, 12 emperors and 19 empresses.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Austria Off The Beaten Path – Zell am See, Innsbruck and Bad Gastein



Mention Austria and everyone thinks of Vienna and Salzburg. In addition to great names, Zell am See, Innsbruck and Bad Gastein are great locations off the beaten path.

Zell am See

Zell…am…See. The name just rolls off the tongue, but it pails in comparison to the place. Often described as heaven on earth, Zell am See is a dream location in the mountains of Austria. With towering mountains on one side and a lake on the other, the town looks like something out of a postcard. If you pull up photographs of the town, you’ll swear they have been touched up with a software program. This town is simply that beautiful. In the winter, Zell am See is all about skiing with numerous resorts for glacier skiing. In the summer, one can lounge on a boat on the lake or hit the mountains for hiking, camping and rock climbing. The Krimml Waterfalls are extremely impressive. Zell am See isn’t the cheapest of travel destinations, but it should top the list if money isn’t a concern. The best month to go is December when skiing is good and winter festivals occur in the town.

Innsbruck

Built on the Inn River, Innsbruck was the home to the 1976 Winter Olympics. And for good reason. As with much of Austria, the town is picturesquely set against mountains and ripe with street cafes and surrounding areas that look like something out of the movie Heidi. As the Olympic designation would suggest, the town is a good launching point for hitting the slopes, but there is much more to it. The historic district has the cobblestone atmosphere you’ve come to expect from town in the Alps. In addition to atmosphere, you can visit historic locations such as the tomb of Emperor Maximilian 1.

My only gripe with Innsbruck is the boring, modern developments around the core of the town that were brought on by the Olympics. They sort of kill the mood, which brings us to Bad Gastein.

Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein definitely gets a nomination for name of the year. It just sounds like a town where bikers would hang out. Admittedly, it is hard to image Austrian Hells Angels, but you get my drift.

Bad Gastein is an old Austrian village without the droll modern fixtures of Innsbruck. Built overlooking a valley, the town has some incredible views. Historically, Bad Gastein is the spa town of Austria with emperors and other VIPs taking in treatment. For atmosphere, the town feels like it hasn’t changed since the 19th century. If you’re looking for old world Austria, this is the place. Make sure to hurry though as the town is supposedly grabbing the attention of developers who are thinking hotels and casinos are a must.

If you visit Austria, Vienna and Salzburg are definite destinations. Just make sure you get out to the incredible towns in the mountains.

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Austria Vienna, Salzburg, Halstatt and Sound of Music



Austria simply can’t be beat when it comes to beauty. You’ve seen the country in the Sound of Music, but the cities of Vienna, Salzburg and the alpine town of Halstatt are just as nice.

Vienna

Vienna is a city with a ridiculous amount of history. The home of the waltz, Habsburg Palaces and an unrivaled musical past. Walk for an evening through the cobblestone streets in the center city and you can almost hear a famous composer at work. In fact, many of the walking areas are lined with small orchestral ensembles playing their way through the evening. Elbowing in on their act, of course, are those unique artist who dress in a period piece and then stand in one position for what seems time eternal. Buddhist monks would be envious if they believed in envy.

The only downside to Vienna is the expense. It is very expensive. If you are going to spend some time in the city, be ready to pay for the privilege.

Salzburg

Salzburg is one of my favorite cities and I always try to hit it when I am traveling through Europe. The real home of Mozart, Salzburg is Vienna without less of the hustle and bustle. A walk through the shopping district will leave you breathless and, sometimes, penniless, but it is a worthwhile go. Salzburg is a city where you can drink bear with monks, take in an opera or just walk through exquisite rose gardens. Unfortunately, it gives Vienna a run for its money when it comes to being expensive. Yes, pun intended.

Halstatt

Halstatt is the little town in the Alps that puts the Sound of Music to shame. Located roughly an hour outside of Salzburg, the easiest way to reach it is by train. The train travels well up into the Alps and drops you off by the side of a lake. You plop down in a little hut and wait for the ferry from Halstatt to appear. The ferry then halls you across the lake to a Alpine town with no cars – Halstatt. It is like stepping into the past. People are friendly, prices are reasonable and romance is on the hoof. Swans swim along the outdoor cafes dotting the lake and, well, it is pretty dang nice. If you are looking for a little romance, Halstatt is definitely worth your consideration.

For many travelers, Austria gets scratched off the “must visit” list because it is so expensive. Still, you should try to visit it at least once in your life to take in the splendor.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Austria Twitter


Austria /ˈɔːstriə/ (German: Österreich officially the Republic of Austria (German: Republik Österreich), is a landlocked country of roughly 8.3 million people in Central Europe. It borders both 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. The territory of Austria covers 83,872 square kilometres (32,383 sq mi), and is influenced by a temperate and alpine climate. Austria's terrain is highly mountainous due to the presence of the Alps; only 32% of the country is below 500 metres (1,600 ft), and its highest point is 3,797 metres (12,460 ft). The majority of the population—about 90%—speaks German, which is also the country's official language.

The origins of Austria date back to the time of the Roman Empire when a Celtic kingdom was conquered by the Romans in approximately 15 BC, and later became Noricum, a Roman province, in the mid 1st century AD—an area which mostly encloses today's Austria. In 788 AD, the Frankish king Charlemagne conquered the area, and introduced Christianity. More recently, the Austrian Empire formed a monarchic union with the Kingdom of Hungary in 1867—creating Austria–Hungary, also known as the Austro-Hungarian Empire—which ended in 1918 with the closure of World War I. In 1938, Austria was incorporated into Nazi Germany, creating a unification known as the Anschluss. This lasted until the end of World War II in 1945, after which Austria was occupied by the Allies. In 1955, the Austrian State Treaty re-established Austria as a sovereign state, ending the occupation. In the same year, the Austrian Parliament created the Declaration of Neutrality which declared that the country would become permanently neutral. The modern name of Austria, Österreich, can be traced back to the name Ostarrîchi, first documented in an official document from 996 AD.

Austria is a parliamentary representative democracy, composed of nine federal states. It is one of six European countries that have declared permanent neutrality, and one of the few countries that includes the concept of everlasting neutrality in its constitution. The capital—and with a population exceeding 1.6 million, Austria's largest city—is Vienna. Austria is one of the richest countries in the world, with a nominal per capita GDP of $43,570. The country has developed a high standard of living, and in 2008 was ranked 14th in the world for its Human Development Index. Austria has been a member of the United Nations since 1955,joined the European Union in 1995, and is a founder of the OECD.Austria also signed the Schengen Agreement in 1995, and adopted the European currency, the euro, in 1999.

Article Source: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austria