MIDDLE EAST
Middle East Country information
Description
The Middle East (or West Asia) sits where Africa, Asia and Europe meet. The countries of the Middle East are all part of Asia, but for clarity reasons we geographically show them here as a separate landmass.
Opinions vary as to what countries make up the modern definition of the Middle East. Historically, Armenia and Azerbaijan have been long associated with the Middle East, but in recent years, some sources now consider them to be more closely aligned with Europe based on their modern economic and political trends. We have moved in that direction, and the same applies for the island country of Cyprus, as it does for Georgia, the former Russian republic.
The African country of Egypt is still thought (by some) to be in the Middle East, as well as the northern African countries that border the Mediterranean Sea.
We attempt here to show the modern definition, but in world of geography, there are often many answers or (personal or political opinions) to what appears to be a simple question.
MIDDLE EAST COUNTRIES
• Algeria
• Bahrain
• Egypt
• Iran
• Iraq
• Israel
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Libya
• Morocco
• Oman
• Palestine
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Sudan
• Syria
• Tunisia
• Turkey
• UAE
• Yemen
Country Basic Data Religions & ethnic groups Flag Links
Algeria
Map of Algeria
Capital Algiers Sunni Muslim (state religion) 99%, Christian and Jewish 1%;
Arab-Berber 99%, European less than 1%
Foreign Affairs
Finances
Energy
Industry
Statistics
Bank
Currency Algerian Dinar
Area (km2) 2,380,000
Languages Arabic, French, Berber
Bahrain
Map of Bahrain
Capital Manama Shi'a Muslim 70%, Sunni Muslim 30%
Bahraini 63%, Asian 19%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%
Foreign Affairs
Finance
Commerce
Information
Research
Currency Bahraini dinar
Area (km2) 620
Languages Arabic
Egypt
Map of Egypt
History of Egypt
Capital Cairo Muslim (mostly Sunni) 90-94%, Coptic Christian and other 6-10%.
Eastern Hamitic (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%
Foreign Affairs
Economy
Statistics
Energy Planning
Central Bank
Government Site
Currency Egyptian pound
Area (km2) 1,001,450
Languages Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes
Iraq
Map of Iraq
History of Iraq
Capital Baghdad Muslim 97% (Shi'a 60%-65%, Sunni 32%-37%), Christian or other 3%.
Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian or other 5%
Foreign Affairs
Information
Currency Iraqi Dinar
Area (km2) 437,072
Languages Arabic, Kurdish, Assyrian, Armenian
Iran
Map of Iran
History of Iran
Capital Teheran Shi'a Muslim 89%, Sunni Muslim 10%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and Baha'i 1%.
Persian 51%, Azeri 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%, Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%.
Foreign Affairs
Agriculture
Energy
Mines and Metals
Statistics
Currency Iranian Rial
Area (km2) 1,648,000
Languages Persian & dialects 58%, Turkic & dialects 26%, Kurdish 9%, Luri 2%, Balochi 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%
Israel
Map of Israel
History of Israel and Palestine
Capital Jerusalem2 Jewish 80.1%, Muslim 14.6% (mostly Sunni Muslim), Christian 2.1%, other 3.2% (1996 est.)
Hebrew (official), Arabic used officially for Arab minority, English most commonly used foreign language
Foreign Affairs
Prime Minister
Bank
Education
Currency New Israeli Shekel
Area (km2) 20,770
Languages Official: Hebrew, English, Arabic; Russian, French
Jordan
Map of Jordan
Capital Amman Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 6%, other 2% (several small Shi'a Muslim and Druze populations) (2000 est.)
Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Finance
Planning
Industry and Trade
Energy
Tourism
Statistics
Bank of Jordan
Currency Jordanian Dinar
Area (km2) 92,300
Languages Arabic (official), English
Kuwait
Map of Kuwait
Capital Kuwait Muslim 85% (Sunni 45%, Shi'a 40%), Christian, Hindu, Parsi, and other 15%.
Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%
Foreign Affairs
Finance
Planning
Information
Bank of Kuwait
Currency Kuwaiti Dinar
Area (km2) 17,820
Languages Arabic (official), English
Lebanon
Map of Lebanon
Capital Beirut Muslim 70% (including Shi'a, Sunni, Druze, Isma'ilite, Alawite or Nusayri), Christian 30% Jewish <1%.
Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
Finance
Economy
Agriculture
Tourism
Président
Statistics
Banque du Liban
Currency Lebanese Pound
Area (km2) 10,400
Languages Arabic (official), French, English, Armenian
Libya
Map of Libya
Capital Tripoli Sunni Muslim 97%.
Berber and Arab 97%, Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Turks, Indians, Tunisians.
Currency Libyan dinar
Area (km2) 1,759,540
Languages Arabic, Italian, English
Morocco
Map of Morocco
Capital Rabat Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%
Foreign Affairs
Planning
Industry
Economy
Investments
Statistics
Currency Moroccan Dirham
Area (km2) 446,550
Languages Arabic (official), Berber dialects, French
Oman
Map of Oman
Capital Muscat Ibadhi Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu
Arab, Baluchi, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi), African.
Economy
Commerce
Information
Bank of Oman
Currency Omani Rial
Area (km2) 212,460
Languages Arabic (official), English, Baluchi, Urdu, Indian dialects
Palestine1
Map of Palestine
History of Israel & Palestine
Capital NA Muslim 87% (predominantly Sunni), Jewish 7% (settlers), Christian and other 6%.
Palestinian Arab and other 93%, Jewish 7%
Planning
Industry
Information
Labor
Tourism
Statistics (PCBS)
Currency New Israeli Shekel; Jordanian Dinar
Area (km2) 5,898
Languages Arabic, English
Qatar
Map of Qatar
Capital Doha Muslim 95%
Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%
Foreign Affairs
Municipal Affairs and Agriculture
Planning Council
Qatar Central Bank
Currency Qatari Rial
Area (km2) 11,437
Languages Arabic (official), English
Saudi Arabia
Map of Saudi Arabia
History of Arabia
Capital Riyadh Muslim 100%.
Arab 90%, Afro-Asian 10%
Foreign Affairs
Agriculture and Water
Information
Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency
Currency Saudi Riyal
Area (km2) 1,960,582
Languages Arabic (official), English
Sudan
Map of Sudan
Capital Khartoum Sunni Muslim 70% (in north), animist 25%, Christian 5% (mostly in south and Khartoum).
African 52%, Arab 39%, Beja 6%, foreigners 2%, other 1%
Foreign Affairs
Currency Sudanese Dinar
Area (km2) 2,505,810
Languages Arabic (official), Nubian, Ta Bedawie, diverse dialects of Nilotic, Nilo-Hamitic, Sudanic languages, English
Syria
Map of Syria
Capital Damascus Sunni Muslim 74%, Alawite, Druze, & other Muslim 16%, Christian 10%, Jewish (tiny communities in Damascus, Al Qamishli, and Aleppo).
Arab 90.3%, Kurds, Armenians, and other 9.7%
Economy
Industry
Information
Tourism
Currency Syrian Pound
Area (km2) 185,180
Languages Arabic (official); Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic, Circassian widely understood; French, English
Tunisia
Map of Tunisia
Capital Tunis Muslim 98%, Christian 1%, Jewish and other 1%
Arab 98%, European 1%, Jewish and other 1%
Government Statistics
Bank
Tourism
Currency Tunisian dinar
Area (km2) 163,610
Languages Arabic (official and one of the languages of commerce), French (commerce)
Turkey
Map of Turkey
Capital Ankara Muslim 99.8% (mostly Sunni), other 0.2% (Christian and Jews).
Turkish 80%, Kurdish 20%
Foreign Affairs
Finance
Industry and Trade
Planning
Statistics
Mineral Research
Currency Turkish Lira
Area (km2) 769,630
Languages Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic, Armenian, Greek
UAE
Map of UAE
Capital Abu Dhabi Muslim 96% (Shi'a 16%), Christian, Hindu, and other 4%;
Emirati 19%, other Arab and Iranian 23%, South Asian 50%, others 8% (1982). less than 20% are citizens.
Commerce
Finance
Planning
Statistics
Government
Bank
Currency Emirati dirham
Area (km2) 78,000
Languages Arabic (official), Persian, English, Hindi, Urdu
Yemen
Map of Yemen
Capital Sana Muslim including Shaf'i (Sunni) and Zaydi (Shi'a), small numbers of Jewish, Christian, and Hindu;
Predominantly Arab. also Afro-Arab, South Asians, Europeans
Resources
Supply and Trade
Information
Central Bank of Yemen
Currency Yemeni Riyal
Area (km2) 527,970
Languages Arabic
A Brief Description
The founder of modern Saudi Arabia, Abd al-Aziz, captured Riyadh at the turn of the 20th century, and began his efforts to unify the many factions on the Arabian Peninsula. It took many decades but he enjoyed a large measure of success.
One of his many sons, Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, rules the country today, and in fact, irrevocable Saudi law dictates that the throne of Saudi Arabia must remain in the hands of the sons and grandsons of the founder.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Middle East, is 95% desert, including the Rub' Al Khali, the biggest mass of sand on the planet.
In 1937 (near Riyadh) large oil reserves were discovered, and today, the country is the world's largest producer and exporter of oil.
Saudi Arabia (to its credit) still uses much of the profits from that industry to improve the infrastructure of the country and the lives of its people.
As an example; with an overall lack of rain and fresh water, it successfully (and very expensively) constructed the world's largest desalination plant on the shores of the Persian Gulf.
It's a strictly Muslim land and home to both Medina and Mecca, Islam's holiest cities, and each year an estimated two-million Muslims take part in the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Hajj is one of the five pillars, or duties, of the Islamic faith, requiring all able-bodied Muslims to make the journey to Mecca, the birthplace of the prophet Mohammed, at least once in their lifetime.
For additional info on this most fascinating land, click
Facts and Figures
Name Saudi Arabia
(long form) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Population 26,417,600
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Riyadh (3.2 million)
Currency Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic
Flag here
National Day September 23
Religions Muslim (100%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
24º 39' N, 46º 46' E
Relative Location Saudi Arabia, located directly on the Tropic of Cancer, is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen, and the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,640 miles (2,640 km)
Land Areas
(land) 756,985 sq miles (1,960,582 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 756,985 sq miles (1,960,582 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Saudi Arabia is for the most part an uninhabited desert land, which includes the Rub' Al Khali Desert, the biggest mass of sand on the planet, and the An-Nafud Desert - where sand dunes often exceed 100 ft. in height.
The land (desert) rises into hills and mountains in the west and southwest, along the edges of the Red Sea. Mountain ranges include the Hejaz in the northwest, and the Azir in the southwest.
There are no perennial lakes or rivers.
Highest Point Jabal Sawda' - 10,279 ft. (3,133 m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 13 provinces, including: Al Bahah, Al Hudud ash Shamaliyah, Al Jawf, Al Madinah, Al Qasim, Ar Riyad, Ash Sharqiyah (Eastern Province), 'Asir, Ha'il, Jizan, Makkah, Najran and Tabuk.
Facts and Figures
Name Afghanistan
(long form) Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Population 29,929,000
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Kãbul (2.9 million)
Currency Afghani (AFA)
Currency Converter here
Languages Afghan Persian (official), Pashtu (official), Turkic languages and local dialects
Flag here
National Day August 19
Religions Sunni Muslim (80%), Shi'a Muslim (19%)
The meaning of "stan" here!
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
34º 31' N, 69º 11' E
Relative Location Afghanistan is landlocked, and situated in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. It's bordered by the countries of China, Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 250,001 sq miles (647,500 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 250,001 sq miles (647,500 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms About the size of the U.S. State of Texas, most of Afghanistan is a rugged, inhospitable mountainous landscape.
More than 50% of the total land area lies above 6,500 ft. (2,000 m). It all culminates in the high peaks of the Hindu Kush, where extensions of the Pamir Mountains, Karakorum Mountains and the Himalayas all come together.
In the north a fertile plain fronts the Anu Dar'ya River. In the south, below the mountains, rolling desert and scattered salt flats cover the land.
Afghanistan is drained by numerous rivers; significant ones include the Amu Dar'ya, Hari, Helmand, and the Kabul - directly east of the capital city, flowing down into the Indus River in Pakistan.
Highest Point Mt. Nowshak - 24,446 ft. (7,485 m)
Lowest Point Amu Darya - 846 ft. (258 m)
Land Divisions 34 provinces, including: Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan, Balkh, Bamian, Daykundi, Farah,
Facts and Figures
Name Bahrain
(long form) Kingdom of Bahrain
Population 688,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Manama (147,074)
Currency Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu
Flag here
National Day December 16
Religions Muslim (Shi'a and Sunni) (82%), Christian, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
26º 13' N, 50º 34' E
Relative Location Bahrain is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. This island country is located in the Persian Gulf, directly east of Saudi Arabia.
Land Statistics
Coastline 100 miles (161 km)
Land Areas
(land) 257 sq miles (665 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 257 sq miles (665 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Bahrain is comprised of 1 large and 32 smaller islands.
Almost all of Bahrain's main island is a low-lying rocky, sandy plain. Coastal salt marshes are common, central and south. There are no significant rivers or lakes.
Highest Point Jabal ad Dukham - 400 ft. (122 m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 12 municipalities, including: Al Hadd, Al Manamah, Al Mintaqah al Gharbiyah, Al Mintaqah al Wusta, Al Mintaqah ash Shamaliyah, Al Muharraq, Ar Rifa' wa al Mintaqah al Janubiyah, Jidd Hafs, Madinat Hamad, Madinat 'Isa, Juzur Hawar and Sitrah.
Facts and Figures
Name Iran
(long form) Islamic Republic of Iran
Population 68,017,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Tehran (8.2 mil) metro (11.7 mil)
Currency Iranian Rial (IRR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Persian (58%), Turkic (26%), others
Flag here
National Day February 11
Religions Shi'a Muslim (89%), Sunni Muslim (9%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
35º 40' N, 51º 26' E
Relative Location Iran is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by the Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, and by the countries of Iraq, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,516 miles (2,440 km) - does not include Caspian Sea shoreline
Land Areas
(land) 631,663 sq miles (1,636,000sq km)
(water) 4,633 sq miles (12,000 sq km)
(TOTAL) 636,296 sq miles (1,648,000 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Iran is a very rugged country of plateaus and mountains, dominated by the Elburz Mountains in the north, and the Zagros Mountains along its western borders.
The central and eastern portion is covered by the Plateau of Iran.The Dasht-e Kavir is a sandstone and salty desert plateau, that in the heat of summer is one of the hottest places on the planet.
The most significant river is the Karun, in the southwestern corner of the country. Lake Urmia (in the far-northwest) is the country's largest body of water.
Highest Point Mt. Damavand - 18,934 ft. (5,771m)
Lowest Point Caspian Sea - (-28 m)
Land Divisions 30 provinces, including: Ardabil, Azarbayjan-e Gharbi, Azarbayjan-e Sharqi, Bushehr, Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Golestan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshah, Khorasan-e Janubi, Khorasan-e Razavi, Khorasan-e Shemali, Khuzestan, Kohgiluyeh va Buyer Ahmad, Kordestan, Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Qazvin, Qom, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd and Zanjan.
Facts and Figures
Name Iraq
(long form) Republic of Iraq
Population 26,074,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Baghdad (6.1 million)
Currency New Iraqi Dinar (NID)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic, Kurdish, others
Flag here
National Day none
Religions Shi'a Muslim (64%), Sunni Muslim (32%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
33º 21' N, 44º 25' E
Relative Location Iraq is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by the Persian Gulf, and by the countries of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Turkey and Iran.
Land Statistics
Coastline 36 miles (58 km)
Land Areas
(land) 166,859 sq miles ( 432,162 sq km)
(water) 1,895 sq miles (4,910 sq km)
(TOTAL) 168,754 sq miles (437,072sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of Iraq is a series of broad, sandy plains. In the far-west, the Syrian Desert blankets the land, and in the far-southeast near the Persian Gulf, the land is low, marshy, and often flooded.
It's mountainous in the far-north, as the Zagros Mountains front its borders with Iran and Turkey. The country's highest point is located there.
Two of the most significant rivers is all of Asia, the Euphrates and Tigris, drain the land.
Highest Point unamed peak - 11,847 ft. (3,611m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 18 governorates, including: Al Anbar, Al Basrah, Al Muthanna, Al Qadisiyah, An Najaf, Arbil, As Sulaymaniyah, At Ta'mim, Babil, Baghdad, Dahuk, Dhi Qar, Diyala, Karbala', Maysan, Ninawa, Salah ad Din, and Wasit.
Facts and Figures
Name Israel
(long form) State of Israel
Population 6,276,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Jerusalem (712,000)
Currency New Israeli Shekel (ILS)
Currency Converter here
Languages Hebrew (official) Arabic and English (widely spoken)
Flag here
National Day May 12
Religions Jewish (75%), Muslim (15%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
31º 46' N, 35º 14' E
Relative Location Israel is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of western Asia. The country is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Dead Sea, Sea of Galilee, Jordan River, and by the countries of Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria.
Land Statistics
Coastline 170 miles (273 km)
Land Areas
(land) 7,849 sq miles (20,330 sq km)
(water) 170 sq miles (440 sq km)
(TOTAL) 8,019 sq miles (20,770 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The country of Israel has four distinct geographical areas:
A fertile (and mostly flat) coastal plain fronts the Mediterranean Sea coastline; rolling hills dissect the country, including the central Samarian hills and the mountains and hills of Galilee in the north; the Great Rift Valley runs south to the Gulf of Aqaba along its southern border with Jordan, and the Negev Desert (part of the Sinai Desert) dominates the southern landscape.
The Dead Sea is the lowest point (below sea level) on the planet. The River Jordon is the most significant river, and it forms the natural border between Israel and Jordan.
Highest Point Mt. Meron - 3,963 ft. (1,208m)
Lowest Point Dead Sea - (-1,349 ft.) (- 411 m) below sea level
Land Divisions 6 districts, including: Central, Haifa, Jerusalem, Northern, Southern and Tel Aviv.
Facts and Figures
Name Jordan
(long form) Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Population 5,759,700
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Amman (1.3 mil ) metro (2.8 mil)
Currency Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), English
Flag here
National Day May 25
Religions Sunni Muslim (92%), Christian (6%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
31º 57' N, 35º 56' E
Relative Location Jordan is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. Positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia, the country is bordered by Israel, Syria (Golan Heights), Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
Land Statistics
Coastline 16 miles (26 km)
Land Areas
(land) 35,510 sq miles (91,971 sq km)
(water) 127 sq miles (329 sq km)
(TOTAL) 35,637 sq miles (92,300sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Jordan is generally a flat desert plateau, east and west, as the western edges of the Syrian and Ard As Sawwan deserts stretch across the land.
In the west, the Great Rift Valley (high hills and mountains) separates the East and West Banks of the Jordan River.
Significant bordering bodies of water include the Dead Sea, the Gulf of Aqaba and the Sea of Galilee.
Highest Point Jabal Ram - 5,689 ft. (1,734 m)
Lowest Point Dead Sea - (-1,349 ft.) (-411 m) below sea level
Land Divisions 12 governorates, including: Ajlun, Al 'Aqabah, Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Jarash, Ma'an and Madaba.
Facts and Figures
Name Kuwait
(long form) State of Kuwait
Population 2,335,600
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Kuwait City (169,000)
Currency Kuwaiti Dinar (KD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), English
Flag here
National Day February 25
Religions Muslim (85%), Christian, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
29º 20' N, 48º 00' E
Relative Location Kuwait is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran and the Persian Gulf.
Land Statistics
Coastline 310 miles (499 km)
Land Areas
(land) 6,880 sq miles (17,820sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 6,880 sq miles (17,820 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of Kuwait is an entirely flat and dry barren desert of sandy plains. The land (desert) begins to rise slightly in the southwest, along the border with Saudi Arabia.
There are no perennial lakes or rivers.
Highest Point Unnamed hill - 1,003 ft. (306 m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 5 governorates, including: Al Ahmadi, Al Farwaniyah, Al 'Asimah, Al Jahra' and Hawalli
Facts and Figures
Name Kyrgyzstan
(long form) Kyrgyz Republic
Population 5,146,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Bishkek (824,000)
Currency Som
Currency Converter here
Languages Kyrgyz (official), Russian (official)
Flag here
National Day August 31
Religions Muslim (75%), Russian Orthodox (20%)
The meaning of "stan" here!
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
42º 53' N, 74º 46' E
Relative Location Kyrgyzstan is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and China.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 73,861 sq miles (191,300 sq km)
(water) 2,780 sq miles (7,200 sq km)
(TOTAL) 76,641 sq miles (198,500 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Land Area 198,500 sq km (76,641 sq miles)
Landforms Over 90% of Kyrgyzstan is dominated by massive, rugged mountain ranges, including the Alai, Kirghiz and Tien Shan, and their associated valleys and basins. Large areas of those mountain regions are covered by glaciers.
A few flat areas (lower valleys) are found in the north and far southwest, but almost 35% of the land is higher than 9,842 ft. (3,000 m) above sea level.
Dozens and dozens of rivers flow from the upper reaches of the mountains; the most significant ones include the Al-Say, Chu, Kara Daryya and Naryn. Issyk-Kul is the world's second largest alpine lake.
Highest Point Jengish Chokusu - 24,406 ft.
(7,439 m)
Lowest Point Kara Daryya - (433 ft.) (132 m)
Land Divisions 7 provinces and 1 city; provinces include: Batken Oblasty, Chuy Oblasty (Bishkek), Jalal-Aba
Facts and Figures
Name Lebanon
(long form) Lebanese Rupublic
Population 3,826,000
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Beirut (1.2 million)
Currency Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), French, English, others
Flag here
National Day November 22
Religions Muslim (60%), Christian, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
33º 52' N, 35º 30' E
Relative Location Lebanon is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia, and bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, and the countries of Syria and Israel.
Land Statistics
Coastline 140 miles (225 km)
Land Areas
(land) 3,950 sq miles (10,230 sq km)
(water) 65 sq miles (170 sq km)
(TOTAL) 4,015 sq miles (10,400 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Lebanon is a mostly mountainous country, east and west, separated by the fertile Bekaa Valley. A narrow coastal strip of land fronts the Mediterranean
The Lebanon Mountains are central and west, while the Anti-Lebanon Mountains stretch across its eastern border with Syria.
Over a dozen minor rivers flow from the mountains, with the Litani the most significant, as it irrigates the heart of the fertile Bekaa Valley.
Highest Point Qurnat as Sawda' -10,128 ft.
(3,087 m)
Lowest Point Mediterranean Sea - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 6 governorates, including: Beyrouth, Beqaa, Liban-Nord, Liban-Sud, Mont-Liban and Nabatiye
Facts and Figures
Name Oman
(long form) Sultanate of Oman
Population 3,001,600
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Muscat (242,000)
Currency Omani Rial (OMR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), English, others
Flag here
National Day November 18
Religions Ibadhi Muslim (75%), Sunni & Shi'a Muslim, Hindu
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
23º 37' N, 58º 38' E
Relative Location Oman, located on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Saudi Arabia, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates and by the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,299 miles (2,092 km)
Land Areas
(land) 82,031 sq miles (212,460 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 82,031 sq miles (212,460 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms First note that much of Oman's borders with Yemen, Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E. are not clearly defined by all parties concerned.
The northernmost part of Oman, the Musandam Peninsula, is separated from the rest of the country by a strip of land belonging to the United Arab Emirates. That peninsula is mostly low hills and mountains.
In the north, a narrow and fertile coastal plain fronts the Gulf of Oman; from there the land rises into the rugged Hajar Mountains.
Central and southeast, a few scrubby-hills and low-mountains dot the central desert landscape and coastal areas. In the west, the pebbly, desert-like land slopes gently into the sands of the Rub' Al Khali Desert.
There are no perennial rivers or lakes of note.
Highest Point Jabal Akhdar - 9,776 ft. (2,980 m)
Lowest Point Arabian Sea - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 5 regions including: Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Ash Sharqiyah and Az Zahirah, and 3 Facts and Figures
Name Pakistan
(long form) Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Population 162,419,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Islamabad (965,000)
Currency Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Punjabi (48%), Sindhi (12%), Siraiki (10%), Pashtu (8%), Urdu (8%), others
Flag here
National Day March 23
Religions Sunni Muslim (77%), Shi'a Muslim (20%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
33º 40' N, 73º 08' E
Relative Location Pakistan, part of the Indian Subcontinent, and positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia, is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. The country is bordered by Iran, Afghanistan, China, India and the Arabian Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 650 miles (1,046 km)
Land Areas
(land) 300,665 sq miles (778,720 sq km)
(water) 9,738 sq miles (25,220 sq km)
(TOTAL) 310,403 sq miles (803,940 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The heartland of Pakistan, the Punjab Plain, is disected by the Indus River and fronts its border with India; southwest, the arid and dry Baluchistan Plateau extends to its border with Iran.
The country's most dramatic landscape is north, as the western edges of the Himalayas, including the (Hindu Kush,) is home to some of the tallest peaks in the world.
The highest point in the country of Pakistan, K2, or (Mount Godwin-Austen), is the second tallest mountain on the planet. Photo here.
The mountainous areas of the west-central, along the border with Afghanistan, include the Ras Koh, Safed Koh and Toba Kakar ranges
The Indus River and its numerous tributaries (one of the world's most significant waterways) drain the entire country.
Highest Point K2 - 28,250 ft. (8.611 m)
Lowest Point Arabian Sea - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 4 provinces, including Balochistan, North-West Frontier Province, Punjab and Sindh. It also
Facts and Figures
Name Qatar
(long form) State of Qatar
Population 863,100
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Doha (721,000)
Currency Qatari Rial (QAR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), English commonly used
Flag here
National Day September 3
Religions Muslim (95%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
25º 15' N, 51º 36' E
Relative Location Qatar is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. This country (peninsula) extends north from the Saudi Arabian landmass into the Persian Gulf, and is directly bordered only by Saudi Arabia.
Land Statistics
Coastline 350 miles (563 km)
Land Areas
(land) 4,416 sq miles (11,437 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 4,416 sq miles (11,437 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of Qatar is a flat and rocky, sandy plain. Low hills punctuate the landscape, west and central, with massive sand dunes in the southeast.
A few salt pans (shining white in the desert sun) line the western coastal areas, and within Qatar there are no perennial rivers or lakes.
The Hawar islands serve as a loading terminal for oil from the western oil fields.
Highest Point Qurayn Abu al Bawl - 338 ft (103 m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 10 municipalities, including: Ad Dawhah, Al Ghuwayriyah, Al Jumayliyah, Al Khawr, Al Wakrah, Ar Rayyan, Jarayan al Batinah, Madinat ash Shamal, Umm Sa'id and Umm Salal
Facts and Figures
Name Syria
(long form) Syrian Arab Republic
Population 18,448,800
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Damascus (2.1 million)
Currency Syrian Pound (SYP)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), Kurdish, many others
Flag here
National Day August 9
Religions Sunni Muslim (74%), other Muslim sects (16%), Christian (10%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
33º 30' N, 36º 19' E
Relative Location Syria is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, and by the countries of Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Israel and Lebanon.
Land Statistics
Coastline 120 miles (193 km)
Land Areas
(land) 71,062 sq miles (184,050 sq km)
(water) 436 sq miles (1,130 sq km)
(TOTAL) 71,498 sq miles (185,180 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms In general terms Syria is a flat desert plateau, dissected by mountains. A narrow coastal plain fronts the Mediterranean Sea.
In the west-central and north the Anti-Lebanon and Bishri mountains dominate the landscape. The highest point, Mt Hermon, stands in the far southwest.
Significant bodies of water include Lake al-Assad (a man-made reservoir,) created by a dam on the Euphrates River.
The Euphrates and its longest tributary, the Khabur (both rising in the mountains of Turkey) are the major rivers. Dozens of much smaller rivers flow down into the central valleys.
Highest Point Mt. Hermon - 9,232 ft. (2,814 m)
Lowest Point Mediterranean Sea - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 14 provinces, including: Al Hasakah, Al Ladhiqiyah, Al Qunaytirah, Ar Raqqah, As Suwayda', Dar'a, Dayr az Zawr, Dimashq, Halab, Hamah, Hims, Idlib, Rif Dimashq and Tartus
Facts and Figures
Name Tajikistan
(long form) Republic of Tajikistan
Population 7,163,506
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Dushanbe (605,000)
Currency Somoni
Currency Converter here
Languages Tajik (official), Russian
Flag here
National Day September 9
Religions Sunni Muslim (85%), Shi'a Muslim (5%), others
The meaning of "stan" here!
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
38º 38' N, 68º 51' E
Relative Location Tajikistan is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China and Afghanistan.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 55,097 sq miles (142,700 sq km)
(water) 154 sq miles (400 sq km)
(TOTAL) 55,251 sq miles (143,100 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Tajikistan is almost all mountains (93%), and dominated by the Alay Range in the north and the Pamir Mountains to the southeast. In fact, more than half of the country is higher than 3,000 m, (9,842 ft.) in elevation.
The numerous mountain chains are etched with deep valleys formed by a dense maze of cold-water rivers. The eastern mountains contain many glaciers and lakes. The Fedchenko Glacier (surrounding the country's highest peaks) covers 700 square kilometers, and is the largest non-polar glacier in the world
The lowest elevations are in the northwest, southwest and in the Fergana Valley, which dominates Tajikistan’s far northern section.
The country's extensive mountain system spawns many rivers, with the most significant being the Syr Darya, Amu Darya (called the Panj in central Tajikistan), Vakhsh (called the Surkhob in northern Tajikistan), Panj, Pamir and Bartang.
Highest Point Qullai Ismoili Somoni - 24,589 ft. (7,495 m)
Lowest Point Syr Darya River - (984 ft.) (300 m)
Facts and Figures
Name Turkey
(long form) Republic of Turkey
Population 69,660,559
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Ankara (3.6 million)
Currency new Turkish Lira (YTL)
Currency Converter here
Languages Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic, others
Flag here
National Day October 29
Religions Muslim (99%) mostly Sunni, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
39º 55' N, 32º 50' E
Relative Location Turkey is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's mostly positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia; additionally, the far northwestern portion is part of the European continent. The country is bordered by Greece, Bulgaria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Iraq and Syria, and the Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 4,474 miles (7,200 km)
Land Areas
(land) 297,591 sq miles (770,760 sq km)
(water) 3792 sq miles (9,820 sq km)
(TOTAL) 301,383 sq miles (780,580 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The European side of Turkey is mostly a series of rolling hills, while across the Bosphorus Strait into central Turkey, the land rise into an elevated central plateau (Anatolian), surrounded by (and mixed with) high, rugged mountains, including the Taurus, Koroglu and Pontic ranges.
Many peaks in Turkey exceed 10,000 feet, and the tallest, most rugged ones, including Mt. Ararat, are found in the Eastern Taurus Mountains.
Along the Black Sea and Mediterranean coastlines the land is lower and quite fertile. The Tigras, Kizilirmak, Sakarya and Euphrates are the most significant rivers, and Lake Van is the largest lake.
Note: As a geological point-of-interest, the country is positioned on one of the planet's major fault lines, and earthquakes are rather common.
Highest Point Mt. Ararat at 16,948 ft. (5,166m)
Lowest Point Mediterranean - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 81 provinces, including: Adana, Adiyaman, Afyonkarahisar, Agri, Aksaray, Amasya, Ankara, Antalya, Ardahan, Artvin, Aydin, Balikesir, Bartin, Batman, Bayburt, Bilecik, Bingol, Bitlis, Bolu, Burdur, Bursa,
Facts and Figures
Name Turkmenistan
(long form) none
Population 4,952,081
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Ashgabat (732,000)
Currency Turkmen Manat (TMM)
Currency Converter here
Languages Turkmen (85%), Uzbek (5%), others
Flag here
National Day October 27
Religions Muslim (89%), Eastern Orthodox (9%), others
The meaning of "stan" here!
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
37º 58' N, 58º 24' E
Relative Location Turkmenistan is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Iran, as well as the Caspian Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 (landlocked) Note the Caspian Sea is actually a lake and provides no access to any major body of water - thus the country is landlocked.
Land Areas
(land) 188,456 sq miles (488,100 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 188,456 sq miles (488,100 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of Turkmenistan is dominated by the flat Garagum (or Kara Kum) Desert (north to south), a sandy, scrubby, arid expanse of land, with very little agricultural potential.
The Kopetdag Mountain Range covers its south-central border with Iran, where earthquakes are quite common. The Pamir Mountain Range extends across it's far eastern border - where its highest point is located.
Along the Caspian Sea and the shorelines of Sarykamish Lake, land elevations below sea level stretch inland for many miles.
The country's most significant river is the Amu Darya, which flows across and along its border with Uzbekistan.
Highest Point Gora Ayribaba - 10,298 ft. (3,139 m)
Lowest Point Sarykamish Lake's low points vary throughout the year - to recorded lows near (-110 m) below sea level.
Facts and Figures
Official Name United Arab Emirates
Population 2,563,200
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Abu Dhabi (528,000)
Currency Emirati Dirham (AED)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic (official), English, others
Flag here
National Day December 2
Religions Muslim (96%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
24º 27' N, 54º 23' E
Relative Location The United Arab Emirates is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. It's bordered by the Persian Gulf, and the countries of Oman and Saudi Arabia.
Land Statistics
Coastline 819 miles (1,318 km)
Land Areas
(land) 32,000 sq miles (82,880 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 32,000 sq miles (82,880 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of the United Arab Emirates is a desert wasteland, with large, rolling sand dunes, as the outer reaches of the Rub' Al Khali Desert stretch into the country.
The coastal areas fronting the Persian Gulf are flat. The Hajar Mountains dominate the landscape in the northeast, and the country's highest point is located there, and there are no significant rivers or lakes of note.
Numerous small island and inlets are situated offshore in the Persian Gulf.
Highest Point Jabal Yibir - 5,666 ft. (1,727 m)
Lowest Point Persian Gulf - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 7 emirates, including: Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi), 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah (Sharjah), Dubayy (Dubai), Ra's al Khaymah and Umm al Qaywayn.
Facts and Figures
Name Uzbekistan
(long form) Republic of Uzbekistan
Population 26,851,195
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Tashkent (2.2 million)
Currency Uzbekistani Soum (UZS)
Currency Converter here
Languages Uzbek (74%), Russian (14%), others
Flag here
National Day September 1
Religions Muslim, mostly Sunnis (88%), Eastern Orthodox (9%), others
The meaning of "stan" here!
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
41º 16' N, 69º 13' E
Relative Location Uzbekistan is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia. The country is bordered by Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 164,248 sq miles (425,400 sq km)
(water) 8,494 sq miles (22,000 sq km)
(TOTAL) 172,742 sq miles (447,400 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The topography of Uzbekistan is about 80% sandy, scrubby desert, including the massive Kyzyl Kum.
The mountains of the southeast and northeast, are foothills and lower mountains of the Tian Shan Range, an extension of the Himalayas.
The Fergana Valley, between the northeast and southeast mountain ranges, is reportedly home to the most desirable agricultural land and climate in all of western Asia.
Highest Pt. Adelunga Toghi - 10,298 ft. (4,301 m)
Lowest Pt. Uzbekistan's portion of Sarykamish Lake; here low points vary throughout the year - to recorded lows near (-12 m) below sea level along its shoreline.
Land Divisions 12 provinces, 1 autonomous republic and 1 autonomous city; provinces include: Andijon Viloyati, Buxoro Viloyati, Farg'ona Viloyati, Jizzax Viloyati, Namangan Viloyati, Navoiy Viloyati, Qashqadaryo Viloyati, Samarqand Viloyati, Sirdaryo Viloyati, Surxondaryo Viloyati, Toshkent Viloyati and Xorazm Viloyati. Facts and Figures
Name Yemen
(long form) Republic of Yemen
Population 20,727,100
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Sana (1.8 million)
Currency Yemeni Rial (YER)
Currency Converter here
Languages Arabic
Flag here
National Day May 22
Religions Sunni and Shi'a Muslim
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
15º 24' N, 044º 14' E
Relative Location Yemen, located on the southern edges of the Arabian Peninsula, to the immediate east of the African continent, is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. It's positioned in the Middle East, a recognized geographical region of southwestern Asia, and bordered by Saudi Arabia, Oman, and by the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,184 miles (1,906 km)
Land Areas
(land) 203,850 sq miles (527,970 sq km)
(water) 0 sq miles (0 sq km)
(TOTAL) 203,850 sq miles (527,970 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Yemen has some of the most fertile lands in the entire Middle East, and yet, for the most part, they're not developed to their full potential.
Along its Red Sea coast there's a flat sandy plain that extends the length of the country. The Gulf of Aden coastline is coverd by a narrow, rocky, and relatively flat plain, fronted by hills that rise into the rugged mountains, central and west.
To the north of those central mountains, the high desert slopes down through fertile plains into the interior of southern Saudi Arabia, and the endless sands of the Rub' Al Khali Desert - the famous "Empty Quarter."
There are no perennial lakes and rivers, however, in the northern highlands some river valleys (wadis) small streams exist (fall and winter) but fade away quickly in the summer heat.
Highest Point Jabal an Nabi Shu'ayb - 12,336 ft. (3,760 m)
Lowest Point Arabian Sea - (0 ft.) (0 m)
Land Divisions 19 governorates, including: Abyan, 'Adan, Ad Dali', Al Bayda', Al Hudaydah, Al Jawf, Al Mahrah,
Thursday, October 8, 2009
europe countries
WRITER:
KUMAYOON NAFRATH (NATHVI)
(DIP IN JOURNALIST, MEDIATOR)
President of I. S.H .O
MAP OF EUROPE
The Regions of Europe
01) western Europe
02) North Europe
03) Southern Europe
04) Eastern Europe
Continent Size:
9,938,000 sq km
3,837,081 sq miles
Percent of Earth's
Land: 6.7%
Population:
729,000,000 (2006)
Country Details
In the early 1990s, Albania abandoned its long-time Communist rule in favor of democracy and a move into the 21st Century.
Blessed with many natural resources, Albania has (for the most part) remained somewhat isolated from the world because of its mountainous topography and the policies of its former hard-line government.
In recent times the country has suffered economic hardships because of the onslaught (into Albania) of thousands of ethnic Albanian Muslims exiting the former Yugoslavia.
The Albania maps and information pasge are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Albania
Capital City Tiranë (353,000)
Population 3,079,000
Latitude/Longitude 41°N, 20°E
Official Currency Leek
Flag here
Languages Albanian (official), Greek
Religions Muslim (70%), Albanian Orthodox, Catholic
Ethnicity Albanian (95%), Greek, other
Land Area 27,400 sq km (10,579 sq miles)
Landforms A broad and swampy coastal plain fronts the Adriatic Sea. From there the land rises into hills and mountains.
Mountains cover most of the country, and major ranges include the Albanian Alps, and the Korab and Pindus Mountains. The highest point is Mt. Karabit (Korab Mtn. in Macedonia), at 9,066 ft. (2,764m).
Major lakes include Ohrid, Prespa both (shared with Macedonia) and Shkodra. Lake Ohrid is the deepest lake in the Balkans (935 ft.)
Significant rivers include the Drin and Vlore.
Land Divisions 36 districts, 1 municipality
Details Country
Andorra, located in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains, is the highest inhabited country in Europe.
Postage stamp size and about 1/5 the size of the U.S. State of Rhode Island, Andorra has no formal constitution, no income tax and no army.
With duty-free shopping, gorgeous scenery and great skiing, it attracts thousands of worldwide visitors on an annual basis.
The Andorra maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Andorra
Capital City Andorra la Vella (23,000)
Flag here
Languages Catalan (official), French
Latitude/Longitude 42° 30'N, 1° 30'E
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 71,800
Religions Catholic
Land Area 468 sq km (181 sq miles)
Landforms Andorra is very rugged. High mountains (the Pyrenees), cover the entire country. No part of Andorra is lower than 3,000 ft. (900m). The highest point is Coma Pedrosa at 9,665 ft. (2,946m). A few small, winding rivers are bordered by steep, narrow valleys.
Country Details
Armenia is a mountainous, landlocked country, on the southeastern edge of Europe, and at the gateway to the Middle East, and all of Asia.
That valuable geographical position for potential trade between continents became a curse of sorts. Over the centuries it was invaded and controlled by various empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Persian, and Ottoman.
Incorporated into the former Soviet Union in 1920, it finally, along with Azerbaijan, gained independence in 1991.
Regional fighting with its neighbor (Azerbaijan) over land control bloodied both countrys, and a cease-fire agreement was finally reached in 1994.
The local economy still suffers from the long-term ramifications of war, an Azerbaijan fuel blockade, and a very severe 1988 earthquake that destroyed much of its infrastructure, and killed over 55,000 of its citizens.
The Armenia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Armenia
Population 3,912,600
Capital City Yerevan (1.26 million)
Flag here
Languages Armenian (official), Russian
Latitude/Longitude 40° 00'N, 45° 00'E
Official Currency Dram
Religions Armenian Orthodox
Land Area 29,800 sq km (11,506 sq miles)
Landforms Armenia is a very mountainous country, almost totally covered by the Lesser (or Little) Caucasus Mountains. The highest point is Mt. Aragats at 13,418 ft. (4,090m)
Lake Sevan is the largest lake and it sits 6,000 ft, (2000m) above sea level. Significant rivers include the Aras, Debet and Razdan.
Land Divisions 10 provinces and 1 city,* including: Aragatsotn, Ararat, Armavir, Geghark'unik', Kotayk', Lorri, Shirak, Syunik', Tavush, Vayots' Dzor and Yerevan
Description
Inhabited since the Stone Age, the Austrian area has a long history of occupations, territorial struggles, war and rulers. The most significant rulers, the Germanic Habsburgs, ruled Austria for 640 years. Their imperial culture was centered in Vienna, a true masterpiece of a city.
That Austrian Empire (Habsburgs) were completely dismantled by 1918, at the end of World War I. During World War II, Adolf Hitler annexed all that remained into the German Third Reich. That war ended in 1945, with Hitler defeated, and the Allies began a brief occupation and reconstruction effort.
On May 15th, 1955, the Austrian State Treaty proclaimed Austria to be an independent republic, and its modern history began in earnest.
Landlocked in central Europe, Austria is today one of the continent's most influential countrys in both economic and political issues. Over the last half-century, the extraordinary Alpine scenery and cultural attractions of Austria and its cities, have transformed it into a major tourism destination.
Perhaps no one country can match the musical resumé of Austria. It's the homeland of legendary composers like Brahms, Haydn, Mahler, Mozart, Schubert and the Strausses - both father and son. In addition, the German-born Ludwig van Beethoven lived in Vienna for most of his adult life.
The current biography of Austria (the home of the Viennese Waltz, the Vienna Boys Choir and dancing Lipizzaner horses), is one of progress and stability.
Combine that with an abundance of natural beauty, spectacular mountain vistas, castles, cosmopolitan cities, the Danube River Valley, music festivals, and of course - world class Alpine skiing and resorts - and Austria paints a very pleasant picture, indeed.
Economy
Austria joined the European Union on January 1, 1995 along with Sweden and Finland.
Currency Euro (details here)
Currency Converter (here)
GDP $226 Billion
GDP (per capita) $27,700
GDP (by sector) agriculture (2%), industry (33%), services (65%)
Agriculture Products grains, potatoes, sugar beets, wine, fruit; dairy products, cattle, pigs, poultry; lumber
Exports (major) machinery and equipment, motor vehicles and parts, paper and paperboard, metal goods, chemicals, iron and steel; textiles, foodstuffs
Imports (major) machinery and equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, metal goods, oil and oil products; foodstuffs
Industries construction, machinery, vehicles and parts, food, chemicals, lumber and wood processing, paper and paperboard, communications equipment, tourism
Natural Resources iron ore, oil, timber, magnesite, lead, coal, lignite, copper, hydropower
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Austria
Official Name (local) Republik Oesterreich
Capital Vienna (Wien)
Currency Euro (details here)
Language (major) German
Population 8,037,400 (2003)
Population (4 largest cities) Vienna (1,523,000), Graz (219,000), Linz (185,000) Salzburg (145,000)
Religions Roman Catholic 78%, Protestant 5%, Muslim and other 17%
Government Info
Administrative Divisions 9 states: Burgenland, Kaernten, Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg and Wien
Executive Branch chief of state:
President Thomas Klestil
(additional government details here)
Government Type Federal Republic
Independence 1156 (from Bavaria)
National Holiday October 26 (National Day)
Land Statistics
LOCATION
(Absolute)
Latitude/Longitude 47° 20' N, 13° 20' E
(Relative)
Austria is a landlocked, central European country.
Bordering Countries (8) Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland
Border Length 1,682 miles, 2707 km
Area 32,377 sq miles, 83,858 sq km
(Land) 31,945 sq miles, 82,738 sq. km
(Water) 432 sq miles, 1,120 sq. km
Highest Point Grossglockner 12,460 ft. (3,798 m)
Web Cam: (here) Photo Page: (here)
Lowest Point Neusiedler See 508 ft. (155 m)
Length/Width 162/335 miles - 260/539 km
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Mean Elevation unavailable
Country Details
Azerbaijan, located on the western edge of the Caspian Sea, sits at the crossroad between East and West. (Asia and Europe)
This valuable geographical position did not go unnoticed, and over the centuries numerous empires fought for control, including those of Alexander the Great, the Romans, the Mongol conqueror Genghis Khan, and Peter the Great of Russia.
Archaeologists believe that the remains of mankind found in Azerbaijan's Azykh Cave, are over one million years old, and the oldest ever found.
Today, this historic land is rich in cultural diversity, with over 70 ethnic groups calling it home. Merged into the former Soviet Union in 1936, it finally, along with Armenia, gained independence in 1991.
Regional fighting with its neighbor (Armenia) over land control bloodied both countrys, and a cease-fire agreement was finally reached in 1994.
At one time Azerbaijan supplied more than 50% of the world's oil. Today, in the oil fields in and around Baku, that industry still flourishes. Environmentally, the Caspian Sea suffers from related pollution.
The Azerbaijan maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Azerbaijan
Population 8,239,000
Capital City Baku (1,24 million)
Flag here
Languages Azeri, Russian, others
Latitude/Longitude 40° 30'N, 47° 30'E
Official Currency Manat
Religions Muslim, others
Land Area 89,600 sq km (33,436 sq miles) Note: this includes the Naxcivan Republic, southwest of Armenia.
Landforms Azerbaijan is a mountainous country, with the Caucasus Mountains covering the north and central. Many snow-capped peaks exceed 12,000 ft., with Baza-Dyuzi the highest point, at 14,698 ft. (4,480m).
Southwest, the Lesser Caucasus cross the land, stretching on into Armenia. In the far-south, the Talish Mountains help form its border with Iran.
A low flood plain covers the south-central and east, ending at the Caspian Sea; much of it below sea level. Baku, the capital city, sits on the Abseron Yasaqligi (or Apsheron Peninsula), that juts hook-line into the Caspian Sea
Significant rivers include the Alazani, Aras and Kura, and the Mangachevir Reservoir is the largest inland body of water.
Land Divisions 59 rayons (regions), 11 cities and 1 autonomous republic.
Country Details
Belarus (formerly Belorussia), translated as White Russia, gained its independence in 1991, with the breakup of the former Soviet Union (USSR).
All of Russia's former republics then formed the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with headquarters in Minsk.
The tragic results of the 1986 Chornobyl nuclear accident in neighboring Ukraine still linger, and the country struggles with environmental conditions in the south, and the overall health of its people.
The capital city of Minsk has an excellent mass-transit system (spotless subway), wide prospects, and plenty of gregarious people to make any visitor feel welcome.
The Belaurus maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Belarus
Population 10,044,000
Capital City Minsk (1.76 million)
Flag here
Languages Belorussian
Latitude/Longitude 53° 00'N, 28° 00'E
Official Currency Belarussian Rouble
Religions Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish
Land Area 207,600 sq km (80,154 sq miles)
Landforms Belarus is a flat, low-lying country that includes the Poltsk Lowland (north) and the Dnieper Lowland (south). The extensive Pripyat marshes cover the southern reaches of the country.
A few areas of rolling hills blend into the lowlands. They rise to the highest point, the Dzerzhinsky, at 1,135 ft. (346m)
The Dnieper is the most significant river. Others of importance include the Dvinar and Pripyat.
Landform pictures, and more here!
Land Divisions 6 voblasts and 1 municipality*, including: Brestskaya (Brest), Homyel'skaya (Homyel'), Horad Minsk*, Hrodzyenskaya (Hrodna), Mahilyowskaya (Mahilyow), Minskaya and Vitsyebskaya (Vitsyebsk).
Country Details
Ancient Belgium, once the Roman province of Gallia Belgica, is replete with a fascinating history of invading empires, kings, and a long list of ruling factions, both regal and righteous.
Modern Belgium, a self-sufficient, industrialized nation, is home base for NATO and the European Union (EU).
One of the Europe's great destinations, Belgium is known for its art, cathedrals, medieval cities and castles, fine chocolates, beers, gourmet foods and friendly, hospitable people.
Travelers can't get enough of Brussels, the stylish capital city, known for a variety of architecture, fashion, food and nitelife.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Kingdom of Belgium
Capital City Brussels (1.75 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 50° 50'N, 4° 00'E
Languages Dutch, French, German
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 10,339,000
Religions Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 32,820 sq km (12,672 sq miles)
Landforms The coastal area is a series of sandy beaches, backed by protecting dunes.
Inland, up to the Meuse River, the land is generally flat, with numerous canals and dikes. It's criss-crossed by many small tributaries of the Schelde River.
East of the Meuse, forested hilly conditions rise to the flat-topped mountains of the Ardennes Region. The highest point is the Botrange, at 2,276 ft. (694m).
Land Divisions 10 provinces, including: Antwerpen, Brabant Wallon, Hainaut, Liege, Limburg, Luxembourg, Namur, Oost-Vlaanderen, Vlaams Brabant, West-Vlaanderen; note - the Brussels Capitol Region is not included within the 10 provinces
Country Details
Bosnia was ruled by numerous forces over the centuries, finally declaring its independence from the former Yugoslavia in February of 1992.
Shortly thereafter, ethnic fighting in the western Balkans resulted in the destruction of many of its historic cities and landmarks, and the tragic death of thousands of its citizens.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (is today) the union of two factions; the Muslim-Croat federation and the Bosnian Serb republic.
Agriculture, mining and timber are important economic contributors, and the once vibrant tourism industry is slowly recovering.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Population 4,207,000
Capital City Sarajevo (581,000)
Flag here
Languages Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian
Latitude/Longitude 44° N, 18° E
Official Currency Marka (BAM)
Religions Muslim, Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 51,130 sq km (19,741 sq miles)
Landforms A very hilly country with the Dinaric Alps dominating the landscape. The highest point, Mt. Maglic, rises to 7,831 ft. (2,387m)
Thick forest cover almost 50% of the land. In the north, along the Sava River valley, a hilly, fertile plain stretches east to west.
The country has limited access to the Adriatic Sea through a small strip of land (about 12 miles wide) in the far-southwest.
Significant rivers include the Neretua, Sava, Vrbas, and the Bosna - the source of the country's name.
Land Divisions In stages of agreement and dispute
Country Details
Bulgaria, founded in 681 AD, is the homeland of ancient civilizations, and remnants of their cultures, and the ruins of their cities, palaces and monasteries are found throughout the country.
After centuries of Turkish control, military conflicts and fighting on the losing side in both World Wars, decades of Communist Party rule, and assorted political squabblings, Bulgaria is finally adjusting to its switch to democracy in the early 1990s.
Tourism is a real growth industry here, and Europeans frequent the beautiful city of Sofia, the numerous historic sites, as well as the resorts and spas on the Black Sea coast.
The Bulgaria maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Bulgaria
Population 7,917,855
Capital City Sofia (1.1 million)
Flag here
Languages Bulgarian
Latitude/Longitude 43° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Official Currency Lev
Religions Bulgarian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Land Area 110,550 sq km (42,683 sq miles)
Landforms The Balkan Mountains cut across the central part of the country, while the Rhodope Mountains run through southern Bulgaria, along its border with Greece.
The highest point in the country, located in the Rila Mountains, is Musala Mt., at 9,594 ft. (2,925 m).
North of the Balkan Mountains the fertile lowlands of the Danubian Plain slope gradually down to the Danube River. The south-eastern lowlands (Maritsa Basin), drained by a series of small rivers, slope to the Black Sea.
Major rivers include the Danube River, as it forms the northern border with Romania, and the Maritsa and Iskur.
Land Divisions 28 provinces, including: Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Dobrich, Gabrovo, Khaskovo, Kurdzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Pleven, Plovdiv, Razgrad, Ruse, Shumen, Silistra, Sliven, Smolyan, Sofiya, Sofiya-Grad, Stara Zagora, Turgovishte, Varna, Veliko Turnovo, Vidin, Vratsa and Yambol
Country Details
Once part of the Roman, Ottoman and Austrian Habsburg empires, Croatia finally declared its independence from the former Communist state of Yugoslavia in 1991.
Ethnic fighting in the western Balkans (in the 1990s) brought havoc to Croatia; historic cities and towns like (Dubrovnik and Zadar) were devastated; and even temporarily abandoned.
Croatia is a beautiful land, with a jagged coastline (the Dalmatian), one dotted with dozens of islands. Inland, the lower mountains and hills of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country.
Happily, Croatia's tourism is on the rebound, as its coastal resorts, Roman ruins, the capital city of Zagreb, and very pleasant weather make it one of the hottest destinations on the continent.
The Croatia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Croatia
Population 4,397,000
Capital City Zagreb (779,145)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 45° 10'N, 15° 30'E
Languages Croatian
Official Currency Kuna
Religions Catholic, Orthodox, others
Land Area 56,538 sq km (21,829 sq miles)
Landforms The land is fertile and mostly flat in the north and northeast, and the far northwest.
The Dinaric Alps and a few smaller mountain ranges (Velebit and Velika Kapela) slice through Croatia. The highest point is 6,005 ft. (1,831m)
The land is hilly, rocky and steep along the Dalmatian coastline, and on most of its offshore islands
Major rivers include the Sava, Drava and Danube.
Land Divisions 20 counties and 1 city*, including: Bjelovarsko-Bilogorska, Brodsko-Posavska, Dubrovacko-Neretvanska, Istarska, Karlovacka, Koprivnicko-Krizevacka, Krapinsko-Zagorska, Licko-Senjska, Medimurska, Osjecko-Baranjska, Pozesko-Slavonska, Primorsko-Goranska, Sibensko-Kninska, Sisacko-Moslavacka, Splitsko-Dalmatinska, Varazdinska, Viroviticko-Podravska, Vukovarsko-Srijemska, Zadarska, Zagreb* and Zagrebacka
Details
Cyprus, a onetime Greek colony and the site of many military incursions over the centuries, is still today, an island in conflict between two opposing factions.
The southern part of this Mediterranean island (the Greek Area) is called the Republic of Cyprus, and is controlled by the officially recognized Cyprus government.
About one-third of Cyprus is occupied by Turkey, and they call it the Republic of Northern Cyprus. That claim is not recognized by the United Nations, or any other country.
Because of a Turkish invasion in 1974, the United Nation's established a buffer zone (colored gray), and that zone runs through the middle of the island, dissecting the capital city of Nicosia.
Even though Cyprus gained its independence from the UK in 1960, there remains two British sovereign bases on the island. (colored yellow)
Through it all, this ancient island remains a popular regional tourist destination, one famed for its sunny weather and fascinating history.
The Cyprus maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Cyprus
Population 793,100, and that number does not include the estimated 115,000 Turks in the north.
Capital City Nicosia (pop. 207,000)
Languages Greek (official), English, Turkish
Latitude/Longitude 35° 00'N, 33° 00'E
Currency Greek Area: Euro, Turkish Area: Turkish Lira
Religions Greek Orthodox, Muslim
Flag here
Land Area 9,251sq km (3,372 sq miles)
Landforms A narrow band of mountains (the Kyrenia) slices across the north, while in the south, the Troodos Mountains dominate. Mt. Olympus is the highest point, at 6,403 ft., (1,951m). A somewhat fertile plain crosses the center of the island, with Nicosia at the southern end. The only rivers of size include the Pedias and Kariyoti.
Country Details
Formerly part of Czechoslovakia and landlocked in the middle of Europe, the Czech Republic is about the size of the U.S. State of New York.
It gained total independence in 1993 (splitting from Slovakia), with each forming a separate country.
Tourism is a major industry here, especially in the beautiful city of Prague, with its art nouveau architecture, castle, historic bridges, cobblestone streets, and much, much more.
The Czech Republic maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Czech Republic
Population 10,290,000
Capital City Prague (1.7 million)
Flag here
Languages Czech (official)
Latitude/Longitude 49° 45'N, 15° 30'E
Official Currency Koruna (CZK)
Religions Catholic, many others
Land Area 78,864 sq km (30,449 sq miles)
Landforms In essence, the Czech Republic is a large plateau surrounded by mountains, with a large slice of central lowland.
The Bohemian Plateau and Moravian Heights (very hilly land) of the south both slope to the disecting river valleys.
Bordering mountain ranges include the Carpathian, Ore, Sudetic and the Bohemian Forest mountains of the southwest. The highest point is Mt. Snezka, rising to 5,259 ft. (1,603m).
Significant rivers include the Elbe, Labe, Morava, Oder and Vltava.
Land Divisions 13 regions, including: Jihocesky Kraj, Jihomoravsky Kraj, Karlovarsky Kraj, Kralovehradecky Kraj, Liberecky Kraj, Moravskoslezsky Kraj, Olomoucky Kraj, Pardubicky Kraj, Plzensky Kraj, Praha*, Stredocesky Kraj, Ustecky Kraj, Vysocina, and Zlinsky Kraj
Details
The rugged Faeroe Islands (18 in all), are in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 250 miles (402 km) directly north of Scotland.
First settled by the Norwegian Vikings, these islands, politically connected to Denmark since the 14th Century, have enjoyed home rule since 1948, and continually strive for full sovereignty.
Many of the inhabitants live in and around the Thorshavn area, the administrative capital and largest city in the islands.
With very little cultivated land, sheep raising is a significant business, and in fact, the name Faeroe Islands is said to mean "Sheep Islands." Fishing, and offshore oil finds help diversify the economy.
Ferries and shipping companies link the islands to the European mainland, and tourism is a growing business.
The Faeroe Island's maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Faeroe Islands
(alt. Faroe, or Føroyar) a self governing territory of Denmark, claimed in 1380
Administrative Capital Torshavn
Flag here
Languages Faeroese, Danish
Latitude/Longitude 62º 00' N, 7º 00' W
Official Currency Danish Krone
Religions Lutheran
Population 46,345
Land Area 1,399 sq km (540 sq miles)
Landforms Similar to Iceland, the Faeroes are lava based islands with elevated coastal cliffs and some elevated peaks. The highest point (on Eysturoy) rises to 2,894 ft. (882m)
Grass grows along the base of local mountains, but few trees survive because of the relentless North Atlantic winds.
Description
First explored and named by Erik the Red (982-985), this isolated land was initially settled by hardy souls from the nearby island of Iceland. Later, his son, Leif Erickson, returns to Greenland from Norway, and development continues.
Subsequently claimed by Denmark in 1380, Greenland is nevertheless geographically considered part of the North American continent, and is the world's largest (non-continent) island, with approximately 85% of it covered by ice.
A note regarding Greenland...
It voted in favor of increased self-rule in November 2008 and acquired complete responsibility for internal affairs in June 2009. Denmark, however, continues to exercise control of Greenland's foreign affairs, security, and financial policy in consultation with Greenland's Home Rule Government.
So, Greenland is still considered a part of Denmark, and not recognized as an official independent country. In fact, it's a constituent country; a country that remains a part of another entity, such as a sovereign state. In this case, the country of Denmark
Read more about Greenland, and its fascinating history here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Greenland
Capital City Godthab (Nuuk)
Population 57,564 (July 2007 est.)
Largest Cities N.A.
Languages Greenlandic (East Inuit), Danish, English
Latitude/Longitude 72º N, 40º W
Official Currency Danish Krone
(the latest conversion rates) here!
Religions Evangelical Luthern
Flag and description here!
Land
Land Area 2,166,086 sq km (839,999 sq miles)
Landforms The coastline is rugged, mountainous and barren. The land then rises to a sloping icecap that covers most of the island.
Highest Point Mt. Gunnbjorn 3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Country Details
A Brief Description:
Estonia, the smallest of the Baltic States, was ruled for many centuries by Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian factions. Historically, it has been attacked, sacked, razed and pillaged on numerous occasions
When the former Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, it gained its long-awaited independence. Subsequently, the somewhat new country of Estonia is now forging modern relationships with the west, including the (EU).
The local economy still revolves around varied agricultural industries. Recently, however, tourism has increased, as it's become a popular cruise ship destination because of the medieval architecture and the history of its charming capital
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Estonia
Population 1,307,605
Capital City Tallinn (382,000)
Flag here
Languages Estonian
Latitude/Longitude 59° 00'N, 26° 00'E
Official Currency Kroon
Religions Lutheran, Orthodox Christain, others
Land Area 45,125 sq km (17,423 sq miles)
Landforms Almost completely surrounded by water, much of Estonia's land is low and flat (close to sea level). There are a few large islands off the western coastline, and dozens of smaller ones.
Central and south, the land is hillier, rising to its highest point - the Munamagi - at 1,042 ft. (318m)
Numerous small lakes dot the western parts of the country. -The largest lakes includes Peipus and Pskov, (shared with Russia) and Lake Vorts-Jarv.
Rivers of size include the Manamagi and Parnu.
Land Divisions 15 counties, including: Harjumaa, Hiiumaa, Ida-Virumaa, Jarvamaa, Jogevamaa, Laanemaa, Laane-Virumaa, Parnumaa, Polvamaa, Raplamaa, Saaremaa, Tartumaa, Valgamaa, Viljandimaa and Vorumaa. city of Tallinn.
Country Details
European Russia Description
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains. It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather commonly called European Russia because of its cultural, political and social blendings with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia
Facts and Figures
Name Russia
(long form) Russian Federation
Population 143,420,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Moscow (10.9 million)
Currency Russian Ruble (RUR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Russian, numerous minority dialects
Flag here
National Day June 12
Religions Russian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
55º 45' N, 37º 42' E
Relative Location Positioned in northern Asia, Russia is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. The country is dissected by the Arctic Circle, and also separated into two recognized landmasses by the Ural Mountains; its land west of those mountains is referred to as European Russia, and includes the capital city of Moscow.
The country is bordered by the Arctic and Pacific Oceans, a dozen seas, and 14 countries, including Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Norway, Poland, (Kaliningrad Oblast) and the Ukraine.
Land Statistics
Coastline 23,396 miles (37,653 km)
Land Areas
(land) 6,562,112 sq miles (16,995,800sq km)
(water) 30,657 sq miles (79,400 sq km)
(TOTAL) 17,075,200 sq miles (6,592,769 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The broad European Plain, or Volga River Plain extends from the Ural Mountains to its western borders with Europe. In the far southwest the Caucasus Mountains slice across the land. The country's highest point, Mt. Elbrus, is located there.
The central and southern areas include large fertile areas, marsh, steppes (plains without trees) and massive coniferous forests.
Siberia is a combination of frozen tundra, with rolling hills rising to plateaus, and numerous rugged mountain ranges. The northeast, south-central and southeast areas are covered by a wide variety of mountain ranges. A few on the Kamchatka Peninsula contain active volcanoes.
Russia has more than 100,000 rivers with a length of 7 miles, or greater. Significant rivers include the Volga, Dnieper and Dvina (west), the Lena, Ob, and Yenisey (central) and the Amur in the far east. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, at 5,310 ft. (1,620m).
Russia is approximately 5,592 miles, (9000km) west to east.
Highest Point Mt. Elbrus - 18,481 ft. (5,633 m)
Lowest Point Caspian Sea - (-92 ft.) (-28 m)
Land Divisions 48 oblasts, 21 republics, 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal cities and 1 autonomous oblast. List of names here!
Country Details
Description:
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather called European Russia because of its political and cultural blending with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia.
The Russian Federation - spread over all climate zones (except tropical) - is the world's largest country, with land that stretches halfway around the planet.
In fact, by airplane from Moscow, it takes over 8 hours to reach Vladivostok on its far eastern coast.
Moscow is the country's major economic and political center; it's the seat of the President, the government and the State Duma.
To learn more about the dynamics of this unparrelled land, visit this page.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Russian Federation
Population 145,934,000
Capital City Moscow (8.4 million)
Largest Cities (metro areas) Moscow (12 million), St. Petersburg (4.8 million), Nizhnij Novgorod (1.9 million), Novosibirsk (1.4 million), Sverdlovsk (1.4 million)
Languages Russian (official), others
Official Currency Ruble
Currency Converter (here)
Religions Russian Orthodox, others
Flag here
Land Area The country is approximately 5,592 miles, (9000km) west to east, with a total land area of 17,075,400 sq km, (6,592,812 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 55º 75N, 37º 62E
Land Borders 36,388 miles (58,562 km), with 8,845 miles (14,253 km) bordering countries, and 27,532 miles (44,309 km) bordering oceans and seas.
Landforms The broad European Plain, or Volga River Plain extends from the Ural Mountains to its western borders. In the far southwest the Caucasus Mountains slice across the land. The country's highest point, Mt. Elbrus, is located here, at 18,481 ft. (5,633m). The central and southern areas include large fertile areas, marsh, steppes (plains without trees) and massive coniferous forests. Siberia is a combination of frozen tundra, with rolling hills rising to plateaus, and numerous rugged mountain ranges. The northeast, south-central and southeast areas are covered by a wide variety of mountain ranges. A few on the Kamchatka Peninsula are active volcanoes. Russia has more than 100,000 rivers with a length of 7 miles, or greater. Significant rivers include the Volga, Dnieper and Dvina (in the east) and the Lena, Ob, and Yenisey (central). Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, at 5,310 ft. (1,620m).
Land Divisions The Russian Federation is divided into 21 republics, 6 krays (federal territories), 2 federal cities, 49 regions (oblasts), 1 autonomous region and 10 autonomous areas. It has 1,067 major cities, with 13 having a population of one million, or more.
Details
Corsica, a region of France, was ruled over the centuries by the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Goths and Saracens. It was eventually sold to France by the Genoese.
Located in the western Mediterranean, just to the north of Sardinia, it's 160 km (99 miles) southeast of Nice, France, and 82 km (51 miles) west of Tuscany, Italy.
Famous for its independent spirit, rugged beauty, olive oil, wine and citrus fruit, Corsica was the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its major industry is tourism, with many visitors arriving by ferry.
The Corsica pages are currently being revised, but you can find additional information about the history of the island here.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Corsica
Capital City Ajaccio (population, 55,000)
Flag here
Languages French (official), but a large number of Corsicans speak Corsican, or (Corsu)
Latitude/Longitude 41° 55'N, 8° 44'E
Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 246,000
Land Area 8,682 sq km (3,352 sq miles)
Landforms Corsica is referred to as the Mountain in the Sea. Its highest point is Monte Cintu at 8,888 ft. (2710m).
This mountainous island has twenty peaks over 2000m, and an average altitude of 560m.
Corsica has the highest mountains and the most rivers (small streams) of any Mediterranean island.
Country Details
Georgia, situated at the dividing line of Asia and Europe, is an ancient country of rugged mountains and very determined people.
Annexed by Russia in 1801, it regained its sovereignty in 1918. It then suffered through 70 years of Communist rule and suppression, finally declaring its independence from Russia in 1991.
The people here say they "Never Gave Up," and those people now have their long-desired freedom.
Traditionally an agricultural land - quite famous for its wines - tourism is on front-burner in Georgia as international travel has increased - especially along the Black Sea coastal areas.
The Georgia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Georgia
Population 5,334,000
Capital City T'Bilisi (1.24 million)
Flag here
Languages Georgian (official), Armenian, Russian
Latitude/Longitude 42° 00'N, 43° 30'E
Official Currency Lari
Religions Christian Orthodox, Muslim, others
Land Area 69,700 sq km (26,911 sq miles)
Landforms Georgia is a very mountainous country. The rugged Caucasus Mountains stretch across the northern third, while central and south, the Lesser Caucasus Mountains dominate the landscape.
The country's highest point, (100% within its borders) is Mt. Kazbek, rising to 16,558 ft. (5,047m).
Mt. Shkhara, is a few meters higher, and its southern slopes front Georgia, but it's mostly located in Russia, just to the southeast of Mt. Elbrus. It rises to 16,627 ft. (5,068m).
Europe's highest point, (Mt. Elbrus) is located just over Georgia's northern border. It reaches 18,841 ft. (5,633m).
The Kolkhida Lowlands front the Black Sea in the west, and numerous small rivers drain the area. The most significant rivers include the Kura and Rioni.
Land Divisions 9 districts, 65 regions
Country Details
Hungary, landlocked in eastern Europe, is bordered by seven countrys and divided almost in half by the massive Danube River.
Once one of the largest kingdoms in Europe, it suffered through many centuries of invasions, unwanted occupations, two World Wars and the Communist Party.
Recently a free-market economy has emerged; Hungary joined NATO in 1999, and will join the European Union (EU), in 2004.
The country's crown jewel is the dazzling capital city of Budapest, known for its architectural style, amazingly diverse restaurants, Gypsy music and friendly people.
The Hungary maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Hungary
Population 10,164,000
Capital City Budapest (1.77 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 20° 00'E
Languages Hungarian (official)
Official Currency Forint
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 92,340 sq km (35,652 sq miles)
Landforms Hungary is a mostly flat country, dominated by the Great Hungarian Plain east of the Danube.
The land rises into hills and some low mountains in the north along the Slovakian border. The highest point is Mt Kekes at 3,330 ft. (1,015m)
The Danube is the major river, as it divides the country almost in half. Other rivers of significance include the Drava and Tisza.
Land Divisions 19 counties, 20 urban counties* and 1 capital city**, including: Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Bekes, Bekescsaba*, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Budapest**, Csongrad, Debrecen*, Dunaujvaros*, Eger*, Fejer, Gyor*, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Hajdu-Bihar, Heves, Hodmezovasarhely*, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Kaposvar*, Kecskemet*, Komarom-Esztergom, Miskolc*, Nagykanizsa*, Nograd, Nyiregyhaza*, Pecs*, Pest, Somogy, Sopron*, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Szeged*, Szekesfehervar*, Szolnok*, Szombathely*, Tatabanya*, Tolna, Vas, Veszprem, Veszprem*, Zala, Zalaegerszeg*
Country Details
The first settlers came to Iceland from Norway and Ireland in the 9th century.
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, directly east of Greenland, Iceland is Europe's westernmost country, the second largest island in the North-Atlantic ocean, and a little over 3 hours flight from London, Paris or Copenhagen.
For many modern decades it has a strong economy, low unemployment, low inflation, and a per capita income among the highest in the world. Due to the 2009 worldwide economic collapse, Iceland now suffers through a severe financial crisis.
The Iceland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Iceland
Capital City Reykjavik
Major Cities/Towns here
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 65° 00'N, 18° 00'W
Languages Icelandic (official)
Official Currency Krona
Religions Evangelical Lutheran, others
Population 279,384
Land Area 100,250 sq km (38,707 sq miles)
Landforms It's largely an arctic desert punctuated by mountains, glaciers, geysers, hot springs, volcanoes and waterfalls. Most of the vegetation and agricultural areas are in the lowlands close to the coastline.
Its most distinctive features are the glaciers. They cover over 11,922 sq. km (4,600 sq. mi) or 11. 5% of the total area of the country. During the past few decades, however, they've markedly thinned and retreated owing to a milder climate.
By far the largest of the glaciers is the Vatnajokull in southeast Iceland, with an area of 8,400 sq. km (3,240 sq. mi), it's equal in size to all the glaciers on the European mainland put together. It reaches a thickness of 1 km (3000 ft.)
Highest Point Oraefajokull (2,199 meters) (6,952 ft)
Land Divisions 23 counties, 14 independent towns.
Fast Facts
Population 1,655,677 (2006 est)
Capital City Cagliari (159,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude (Cagliari) 38º 08' N, 013º 23' E
Languages Italian, Sardinian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 24,090 sq km (9,301 sq miles)
Landforms Most of the Sardinia is a mountainous plateau that gradually slopes to the sea. The highest point, Punta La Marmora, rises to 6,017 ft. (1,834m). The mountainous terrain is drained by many small rivers and streams, and is punctuated by wide green valleys, all covered by scrub and grassy land. Flatter areas (plains) cover much of the coastline
Sardinia
Sardinia is Italy's second largest island and the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It's also a geographical and political region of Italy, famed for its beautiful beaches and fascinating history.
Over many centuries it's survived countless invasions by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, and local festivals on the island still reflect the long-lasting impact of those cultures.
Numerous prehistoric castles, villages, temples and tombs dot the countryside, and with its perfect weather, tourists arrive in droves, most using the dependable ferry service from the Italian mainland
Facts
Population 5,132,000
Capital City Palermo (680,810)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude (Palermo) 38º 08' N, 013º 23' E
Languages Italian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 25,706 sq km (9,925 sq miles)
Landforms Most of the island is a mountainous plateau. The highest point, Mt. Etna (an active volcano), rises to 10,902 ft. (3,323m). The central plateau slopes to coastal lowlands and some fertile areas drained by many small rivers amd streams. The significant rivers include the Salso and Simeta.
Sicily
Sicily is Italy's largest island and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It's also a geographical and political region of Italy, famed for its beautiful beaches, cuisine, and fascinating history.
Because of its strategic location, Sicily was invaded over the centuries by many armies, and was once the site of Roman, Greek and Phoenician colonies. For history-buffs and interested tourists, remnants of those cultures remain to this day.
Sicily's economy is based largely on agriculture, fishing, mining, and of course...tourism. Many visitors to the island use the dependable ferry service from the Italian mainland to Messina. Also there is ferry or hydrofoil service to Palermo from ports throughout the central Mediterranean
Country Details
Latvia, an ancient Baltic land, was controlled over the centuries by many factions, including the wide-reaching Russian empire of Catherine the Great.
After centuries of regional revolution and war, it finally gained its independence when the former Soviet Union broke apart in 1991. It quickly embraced the west, joined the United Nations, and began a rebuild of its economic base.
Latvia is a fertile land with a strong dairy industry, and a solid textile, chemical and electronic manufacturing base. Riga, the capital city, is a significant Baltic seaport.
The long, sandy coastline facing the Baltic, and its interior beauty and history are growing attractions for tourists from Europe and the Americas.
The Latvia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Latvia
Population 2,290,000
Capital City Riga (706,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 57° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Languages Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian
Official Currency Lats
Religions Lutheran, Catholic, Russian Orthodox
Land Area 64,589 sq km (24,938 sq miles)
Landforms Latvia is (overall) a very flat country with some high hills to the east of Riga. Its highest point, the Vidzeme, rises to 1,020 ft. (311m)
Small lakes and swamps dot the countryside. Important rivers include the Daugava, Lielupe and Ventas.
Land Divisions 26 counties and 7 municipalities, including: Aizkraukles Rajons, Aluksnes Rajons, Balvu Rajons, Bauskas Rajons, Cesu Rajons, Daugavpils*, Daugavpils Rajons, Dobeles Rajons, Gulbenes Rajons, Jekabpils Rajons, Jelgava*, Jelgavas Rajons, Jurmala*, Kraslavas Rajons, Kuldigas Rajons, Liepaja*, Liepajas Rajons, Limbazu Rajons, Ludzas Rajons, Madonas Rajons, Ogres Rajons, Preilu Rajons, Rezekne*, Rezeknes Rajons, Riga*, Rigas Rajons, Saldus Rajons, Talsu Rajons, Tukuma Rajons, Valkas Rajons, Valmieras Rajons, Ventspils* and Ventspils Rajons. (municipalities*)
Country Details
Established within the Holy Roman Empire in 1719, Liechtenstein became a sovereign state in 1806.
One of the world's smallest countries, it's closely associated with Switzerland for its defense.
A strong industrialized land known as a tax haven for banks and investment companies, it's also an excellent Alpine skiing destination.
The Liechtenstein maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Liechtenstein
Capital City Vaduz
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Latitude/Longitude 47° 10'N, 9° 32'E
Languages German (official)
Official Currency Swiss Franc
Religions Catholic, others
Population 32,119
Land Area 160 sq km (62 sq miles)
Landforms The Rhine River valley covers the western third of the country, with the mountainous (Alps) the balance.
Land Divisions 11 communes, including: Balzers, Eschen, Gamprin, Mauren, Planken, Ruggell, Schaan, Schellenberg, Triesen, Triesenberg, and Vaduz.
Country Details
Lithuania, the southern-most Baltic state, was once a powerful force in medieval Europe.
In modern times it suffered from the tragic impact of a German invasion during World War II, and the almost 60 years of failed Communist rule.
When the former Soviet Union collasped in 1991, it finally gained its independence.
Lithuania is slowly adapting to western economic policies, and its economy, though changing, still depends on a strong agricultural base.
The Lithuania maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Lithuania
Population 3,491,000
Capital City Vilnius (543,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 56° 00'N, 24° 00'E
Languages Lithuanian, Polish, Russian
Official Currency Litas
Religions Catholic, Russian Orthodox, Protestant, others
Land Area 65,200 sq km (25,174 sq miles)
Landforms Lithuania is mostly flat lowlands in the west, with some low hills
In the east and southeast, bogs, small lakes, and the rolling hills of the Baltic Highlands dominate the landscape.
Its highest point - the Juazapine - stands at 964 ft. (294m). Important rivers include the Neman, Neris and Venta.
Land Divisions 44 regions and 11 municipalities
Country Details
Luxembourg is a country that literally developed around its capital city of the same name. It's smaller than the U.S. State of Rhode Island.
Founded in 963, Luxembourg (the city) known by the Roman (Luciilinburhuc), endured many centuries of cultural and political change. Then, in 1867, it was declared permanately neutral.
In the 1940s, it ended that long-held neutrallity, and joined many of the modern European positions and organizations. It in fact became one of the six founding members of the European Union. (EU)
This beautiful, historic slice of land is today a prosperous constitutional monarchy, known as a international tax haven and banking center.
The Luxembourg maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Capital City Luxembourg (78,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 49° 45'N, 6° 10'E
Languages Letzeburgish, German, French
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 451,700 (2003 est.)
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 2,585 sq km (998 sq miles)
Landforms A landlocked country of thick, green forests that cover rolling hills and low mountains.
The northern region, (Oesling) is a ridged plateau, with land that suffers from bad soil composition, and remains (for the most part) unproductive.
The Andrennes (low mountains) slice across its northern boder with Belgium. Burgplatz, the countrys highest point, stands at 1,843 ft. (559m).
Gotland, the southern region, is blessed with fertile soil and nourishing rivers.
Important rivers include the Alzette, Eisch, Moselle, Our and Sure. The largest lake is Haute Sure.
Land Divisions 3 districts, including: Diekirch, Grevenmacher, and Luxembourg
Country Details
The historic country of Macedonia was once the Kingdom of Macedon, ruled by Alexander the Great (355-325 BC)
Over many centuries it was exploited by the Romans, Byzantines, Bulgars and Serbs; finally conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
As Communism was collapsing and the former Yugoslavia was dissolving, its long-desired independence from Yugoslavia (in 1991) was delayed for awhile by Greece; it objected to its use of the Hellenic name (and symbols), as Macedonia is also a large, historic part of northern Greece.
Macedonia's first parliamentary election were held in 1994, and Greece lifted its trade blockade in 1995. The two countries agreed to normalize relations, but disagreement over the name continues.
The Macedonia maps and information pages pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Macedonia
Capital City Skopje (452,000)
Population 2,114,550
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 41° 50'N, 22° 00'E
Languages Macedonian, Albanian, others
Official Currency Macedonian Denar
Religions Eastern Orthodox, Musim, others
Land Area 25,715 sq km (9,929 sq miles)
Landforms Macedonia is an elevated plateau of large, rolling hills and deep valleys, completely disected and surrounded by mountains. The Dinaric Alps extend down into Macedonia, and the highest point is in the Korab Mountain range, at 9,066 ft. (2,764m).
Major lakes include Ohrid, Prespa (both shared with Albania) and Doiran. Lake Ohrid is the deepest lake in the Balkans (935 ft.)
The Vardar River divides the country; other rivers of note include the Bregalnica and Cma.
Land Divisions 34 counties and 123 municipalities
Country Details
Malta, a country composed of three major islands, is located in the Mediterranean Sea, just 58 miles south of Sicily, Italy.
Once part of the Roman Empire, it was seized and controlled by many factions over the centuries, including Napoleon.
Malta's valuable military position was coveted by many, and it 1814, it became a British colony. That British control ended in 1964, as Malta gained its independence.
With sparse areas of fertile land, its shipping and port facilities are economically important, but it's tourism that provides the major financial impact.
The Malta maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Malta
Capital City Valletta
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 35° 50'N, 14° 35'E
Languages Maltese (official), English (official)
Official Currency Euro
Religions Catholic, others
Population 402,000 (2003 est.)
Land Area 320 sq km (124 sq miles)
Landforms Mostly low, rocky land with rugged, steep coastal cliffs.
Land Divisions none
Country Details
Moldova, an ancient land of castles, was frequently controlled by invading forces throughout its long history, including those from Hungary, Poland, and the Turkish Ottoman Empire.
After a long association with Romania, it was absorbed into the former Soviet Union (USSR) during World War II. It then gained its independence from Russia in 1991, to become an independent, neutral state.
Famed for sparkling wine production, at one time it supplied Russia with over 300 million bottles of wine annually. Still suffering from the impact of the former Communist system, its future now rests on the fertile land, as it's ideally suited for a variety of agricultural industries.
The Moldova maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Moldova
Capital City Chisinau
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 29° 00'E
Languages Moldovan (official), Russian, others
Official Currency Moldovan Leu
Religions Easterm Orthodox
Population 4,762,000
Land Area 33,700 sq km (13,000 sq miles)
Landforms The land is hilly with a subtle slope south toward the Black Sea. Important rivers include the Nistru, Byk, and the Prut which forms its entire western border with Romania.
Land Divisions 10 juletule, 1 municipality* and 1 autonomous unit**; including: Balti, Cahul, Chisinau, Chisinau*, Dubasari, Edinet, Gagauzia**, Lapusna, Orhei, Soroca, Tighina and Ungheni
Country Details
Monaco, an ancient principality, covers about two square miles, and has been ruled since the 14th century by the Grimaldi family.
It has the highest population density of any country, enjoys many tax benefits, and of course it's the home of the glittering Monte Carlo Casino.
UPDATE: Prince Rainier III of Monaco, whose marriage to American film star Grace Kelly brought elegance and glamor to one of Europe's oldest dynasties, died, April 6, 2005, at age 81.
The Monaco maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Monaco
Capital City Monaco
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 43° 44'N, 7° 24'E
Languages French (official), English
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 29,972
Land Area 1.95 sq km (.75 sq miles)
Landforms Very hilly, rugged and rocky
Land Divisions none
Country Details
On July 1, 2006, the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, as well as other many additional countries around the world now recognize both Montenegro and Serbia as separate nations. We are in the process of creating separate maps and individual pages for both countries, and hope to have them on line in the very near future.
Serbia's capital is Belgrade, and Montenegro's is now Podgorica. Kosovo, a region of Serbia, is administrated by NATO and the United Nations.
In 1999, the world watched in horror as the Serbs began a massive expulsion of ethnic Albanians living in Kosovo. That action provoked an international response that included the bombing of Serbia, and the positioning of NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo.
Within months, Serbia's former leader (Slobodan Milosevic) was arrested; awaiting trial in The Hague, Netherlands for crimes against humanity, he died.
The Serbia and Montenegro map pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Status of Kosovo here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Name Serbia & Montenegro (formerly Yugoslavia)
Population 10,655,000 (with approximately 600,000 living in Montenegro)
Capital Cities Belgrade (Serbia), Podgorica (Montenegro)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 44° 00'N, 21° 00'E
Languages Serbian, Albanian
Official Currency Serbia (Dinar), Montenegro (Euro)
Religions Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic, others
Land Area 102,173 sq km (39,449 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged mountains, hills and valleys of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country, west of the Morava River. The highest point, Daravica, rises to 8,712 ft. (2,656m).
The toothy-edge Balkan Mountains form its natural borders with Bulgaria and Romania.
A fertile river floodplain (the Pannonian) stretches from Belgrade north to the borders with Croatia, Hungary and Romania.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Drina, lim, Morava, Sava and Tara. Lake Skadar is shared with Albania.
Land Divisions 2 republics and 2 autonomous provinces (Kosovo and Vojvodina)
Country Details
Poland, a central European country, is situated on the southern end of the Baltic Sea.
It's an ancient land, one with a tragic history of military invasions, occupations and the brutal experience of warfare.
Since the end of World War II, and the eventual fall of Communism, Poland has moved to a free-market system. It still struggles with a complete economic revolution, but the 21st Century has definitely arrived.
Coal production (is and was) a major industry, but Poland is also a productive farming nation, (livestock, potatoes and wheat) and an offshore petroleum producer.
Tourism is on the increase in Warsaw, and hiking and skiing aficionados are now venturing into the southern mountain regions.
The Poland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Poland
Population 38,576,000
Capital City Warsaw (1.6 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 52° 00'N, 20° 00'E
Languages Polish (official)
Official Currency Zloty
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 304,460 sq km (117,552 sq miles)
Landforms Fronting the Baltic Sea, a lowland plain blends into sandy beaches and dunes.
The northern regions are somewhat hilly while flat fertile farmlands dominate the Central Lowlands.
Moving south, the land rises into hilly uplands that front the Sudetic and Carpathian Mountain ranges. The tallest peaks are in the Tatra Mountains. The highest point is Rysy at 8,187 ft. (2,499m)
The Oder, Vistula and Warta are the country's major rivers. Numerous small lakes dot the far northeast.
Land Divisions 16 provinces, including: Dolnoslaskie, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Lodzkie, Lubelskie, Lubuskie, Malopolskie, Mazowieckie, Opolskie, Podkarpackie, Podlaskie, Pomorskie, Slaskie, Swietokrzyskie, Warminsko-Mazurskie, Wielkopolskie and Zachodniopomorskie
Country Details
An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe.
In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on epic voyages that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time establish settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa.
A member-country of the European Union since 1986, Portugal currently enjoys a steady economic growth and is world famous for its wine, its history and its hospitality.
The Portugal maps and information pages are currently being revised, and they will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Portugal
Capital City Lisbon (2.6 million)
Flag here
Languages Portuguese (official)
Latitude/Longitude 39° 30N, 8°W
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 10,366,000
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 91,950 sq km (35,502 sq miles)
Landforms Mountains and high hills cover the northern third of Portugal, including an extension of the Cantabrian Mountains from Spain.
The mainland's highest point is a peak in the Serra da Estrela, at 6,532 ft. (1,991m). Note: Portugal's overall highest point (Pico Volcano ) is located in the Azores (an autonomous region) on the island of Pico. It stands at 7,713 ft. (2,351m).
Further south and west, the land slopes to rolling hills and lowlands, and a broad coastal plain.
Major rivers include the Douro, Guadiana and the Tagus. There are no inland lakes.
Land Divisions 18 districts, including: Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria, Lisboa, Portalegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real and Viseu.
Autonomous regions include the Azores and the Madeira islands.
Details
The widely-separated Azores, 972 miles (1564 km) directly west of Lisbon, Portugal, includes nine islands (all volcanic in origin).
Colonized by the Portuguese in the mid-15th century, their strategic position near the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is their most valuable asset.
Today the Azores are an important mid-ocean refueling and pit-stop for commercial airlines, cruise ships, international shipping, and private yachts.
Famous for deep sea fishing, local cheeses, red and white wine production, and many varieties of tropical fruit - the islands are becoming a increasingly popular tourist destination.
The Azores' maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Azores,
an autonomous region of Portugal since 1439
Administrative Capital Ponta Delgada
Flag here
Languages Portuguese (official)
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 242,000
Land Area 2,355 sq km (893 sq miles)
Landforms The forested islands are volcanic in origin and ringed by long, sandy beaches. The highest point is the Pico Volcano, at (2,351 m)
Country Details
Romania (Land of the Romans) was conquered by the Romans in 106 AD, and became the Roman province of Dacia.
For many centuries it suffered through unwanted incursions and occupations. Then, in 1947, it abolished the monarchy and declared itself a republic.
Beginning in 1967, internal conditions got much worse, as the country entered a most repressive time. Nicolae Ceausescu assumed the presidency and his brutal dictatorial rule of corruption, terror and human rights violations almost ruined Romania.
His regime finally ended during the revolution of 1989. Ceausescu (and his wife), were captured, quickly brought to trial, then executed.
Since then, Romania has taken a bold step toward a free-market economy. Black Sea resorts, hiking and skiing in the Carpathian Mountains, and the Transylvania region (of Count Dracula legend) are international tourist favorites.
The Romania maps and information pages are currently being revised, and they will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Romania
Capital City Bucharest
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 46° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Languages Romanian (official), Hungarian, German, others
Official Currency Leu
Religions Romanian Orthodox, Catholic, others
Population 22,291,000
Land Area 230,340 sq km (88,934 sq miles)
Landforms The Carpathian Mountains and the Carpatii Mountains (Transylvanian Alps) almost encircle the central plain. Those mountains slope down into much flatter land in the south and southeast.
The Prut River forms its eastern border with Moldova, and the Danube River forms its southern border with Bulgaria, then flowing north and east into the Black Sea.
Land Divisions 40 counties, 1 municipality
Country Details
European Russia Description
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains. It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather commonly called European Russia because of its cultural, political and social blendings with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia
Facts and Figures
Name Russia
(long form) Russian Federation
Population 143,420,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Moscow (10.9 million)
Currency Russian Ruble (RUR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Russian, numerous minority dialects
Flag here
National Day June 12
Religions Russian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
55º 45' N, 37º 42' E
Highest Point Mt. Elbrus - 18,481 ft. (5,633 m)
Lowest Point Caspian Sea - (-92 ft.) (-28 m)
Land Divisions 48 oblasts, 21 republics, 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal cities and 1 autonomous oblast. List of names
Country Details
San Marino is the oldest state in Europe, and the third smallest country in Europe, when compared to the Vatican and Monaco.
According to tradition, it was founded in AD 301 when a Christian stonemason named (Marinus the Dalmation) fled the island of Arbe to escape the anti-Christian Roman Emperor Diocletian. Marinus hid on the peak of Mount Titano and founded a small community of people following their Christian beliefs.
It's certain that the area had been inhabited since prehistoric times, although evidence of existence on Mount Titano dates back only to the Middle Ages.
In memory of the above mentioned stone cutter, the land was renamed "Land of San Marino," then called the "Community of San Marino," and was finally changed to its present-day name, "Republic of San Marino."
The San Marino maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of San Marino
Capital City San Marino
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 43° 46'N, 12° 25'E
Languages Italian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic
Population 25,350
Land Area 61 sq km (24 sq miles)
Landforms Completely surrounded by Italy, the country is in the Appennines Mountains, with most of it on the slopes of Mt. Titano.
Land Divisions 9 municipalities, including: Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Chiesanuova, Domagnano, Faetano, Fiorentino, Monte Giardino, San Marino, and Serravalle
Country Details
On July 1, 2006, the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, as well as other many additional countries around the world now recognize both Montenegro and Serbia as separate nations. We are in the process of creating separate maps and individual pages for both countries, and hope to have them on line in the very near future.
Serbia's capital is Belgrade, and Montenegro's is now Podgorica. Kosovo, a region of Serbia, is administrated by NATO and the United Nations.
In 1999, the world watched in horror as the Serbs began a massive expulsion of ethnic Albanians living in Kosovo. That action provoked an international response that included the bombing of Serbia, and the positioning of NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo.
Within months, Serbia's former leader (Slobodan Milosevic) was arrested; awaiting trial in The Hague, Netherlands for crimes against humanity, he died.
The Serbia and Montenegro map pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Status of Kosovo here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Name Serbia & Montenegro (formerly Yugoslavia)
Population 10,655,000 (with approximately 600,000 living in Montenegro)
Capital Cities Belgrade (Serbia), Podgorica (Montenegro)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 44° 00'N, 21° 00'E
Languages Serbian, Albanian
Official Currency Serbia (Dinar), Montenegro (Euro)
Religions Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic, others
Land Area 102,173 sq km (39,449 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged mountains, hills and valleys of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country, west of the Morava River. The highest point, Daravica, rises to 8,712 ft. (2,656m).
The toothy-edge Balkan Mountains form its natural borders with Bulgaria and Romania.
A fertile river floodplain (the Pannonian) stretches from Belgrade north to the borders with Croatia, Hungary and Romania.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Drina, lim, Morava, Sava and Tara. Lake Skadar is shared with Albania.
Land Divisions 2 republics and 2 autonomous provinces (Kosovo and Vojvodina)
Country Details
For centuries the Slovakian people were subjected to domination by stronger political entities, including the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Habsburg Empire.
Long a part of Czechoslovakia, Slovakia became and independent nation on January 1, 1993.
Farming, forestry, mining and manufacturing are important industries, as well as a flourishing tourism business.
The country is two-thirds mountainous, and ski resorts in the Ore and Carpathian Mountains are growing in popularity.
The Slovakia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Slovak Republic
Population 5,381,000
Capital City Bratislava (428,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 48° 40'N, 19° 30'E
Languages Slovak (official), others
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 49,036 sq km (18,933 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged Ore Mountains dominate the central region, while the Carpathian Mountains cover its northern borders with the Czech Republic and Poland.
The tallest peaks are in the Tatra Mountains. The highest point is Gerlach Peak, rising to 8,743 ft. (2,665m)
The mountains slope into the fertile lowlands of the Danube River plain.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Morava, Hron, Hornad and Vah.
Land Divisions 8 regions, including: Banskobystricky, Bratislavsky, Kosicky, Nitriansky, Presovsky, Trenciansky, Trnavsky and Zilinsky
Country Details
Slovenia is one of the youngest European countries, becoming an independent state in 1991, after the collapse of the Yugoslav federation.
Soon after it became the 176th member of the United Nations and an associate member of the European Union.
Today, agricultural industries are a significant economic factor, and its large freight port in Koper (on the Adriatic Sea) is an important gateway into Central Europe.
The tragic civil war with Serbia seriously affected its thriving tourism industry, and yet, signs of recovery are on the horizon.
The Slovenia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Slovenia
Capital City Ljubljana
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 46° 00'N, 15° 00'E
Languages Slovenian (official), others
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 1,977,000
Land Area 20,250 sq km (7,820 sq miles)
Landforms Over 40% of the land is mountainous as the Alps extend across northern Slovenia. The Julian and Savinja ranges run along its borders with Austria and Italy. Central and south, the balance of land is mixture of high hills and valleys, covered by green forests. Major rivers include the Drava and Sava.
Land Divisions 136 municipalities, 11 urban municipalities
Details
The Balearic Islands, an autonomous division of Spain, are one of the most popular holiday destinations in all of Europe. The well-known island of Mallorca is the largest in the group.
There is little history on the earliest inhabitants of the islands, though many legends exist. In modern times, these stunning rocks in the Mediterranean Sea are tourism magnets.
Excellent climate, sandy beaches and natural beauty attracts visitors to these islands from around the world. In fact, in 2007 nearly 24 million people passed through Palma's Son Sant Joan airport, with an additional 2 million coming by sea
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Balearic Islands,
a territory of Spain since 1349
Capital City Palma de Mallorca
Major Towns here
Flag here
Languages Spanish (official) and Catalan
Latitude/Longitude 39° 34'N, 2° 39'E
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 1,071,221 (2008)
Land Area 5014 sq km (1935 sq miles)
Details
Once known to the ancient Romans as the Fortunate Islands, the Canary Islands were named after the large dogs (Canes) found living on the islands.
Located off the northwestern coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are one of the most popular tourist destination on the planet, especially with Europeans.
The Canary Island's archipelago includes (7) major islands, all remnants of very steep, extinct volcanoes. Weather conditions here are considered perfect, and the beaches - some of the best on the planet.
The Canary Islands' maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Official Name Canary Islands,
an autonomous region of Spain
Major Cities Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Flag here
Languages Spanish (official), English, German
Latitude/Longitude 28° 06'N, 15° 24'W
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Roman Catholic, others
Population 1.6 million
Land Area 7,770 sq km (3,000 sq miles)
Landforms The islands are the remaining cones of long-extinct volcanoes, some very steep. The highest point (the highest point in all of Spain's territories) is the Pico de Teide Mountain, located on Tenerife. It's 12,195 ft., (3,718m) tall
Country Details
The beautiful, mountainous country of Switzerland is landlocked in south-central Europe, and remains one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet.
It's famed for banking institutions, watch makers, cheeses and chocolates, mountain glaciers and lakes, and of course, fabulous skiing in the Alps.
Politically, its long-standing neutrality is highly respected by the major nations of the world, and in fact, Switzerland played no part in World War I and II.
The Switzerland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Swiss Confederation
Capital City Bern
Flag here
Languages German, French, Italian, Romansch
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 8° 00'E
Official Currency Swiss Franc
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 7,318,000
Land Area 39,770 sq km (15,355 sq miles)
Landforms Mountains cover 60% of the land area with ranges of the Alps in the south and the Jura Mountains in the north. Between the mountains there's a hilly, central plateau.
Land Divisions 26 cantons, including: Aargau, Appenzell Ausser-Rhoden, Appenzell Inner-Rhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Bern, Fribourg, Geneve, Glarus, Graubunden, Jura, Luzern, Neuchatel, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Sankt Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Thurgau, Ticino, Uri, Valais, Vaud, Zug, Zurich
Country Details
Turkey is geographically, politically and officially part of two continents - Europe and Asia. The smaller northwestern portion (Thrace) is part of Europe, while the larger portion (Anatolia) is part of Asia.
Founded in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey is home to spectacular mountains, superb beaches and antiquities of all descriptions.
This fascinating country is a very popular tourist destination and one of the most intriguing countries on the planet.
The Turkey maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Turkey
Population 73,197,000
Capital City Ankara (3.4 million)
Population (largest Cities) Istanbul 9.4 million, Ankara 3.4 million, Izmir 2.4 million, Bursa 1.2 million, Adana 1.2 million
Flag here
Languages Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic, others
Official Currency Turkish Lira
Currency Converter here
Religions Muslim, others
Land Area 770,630 sq km (297,154 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 39° 00'N, 35° 00'E
Landforms The European side is mostly rolling hills, while across the Bosphorus Strait into central Turkey, there are wide plains, all surrounded by (and mixed with) high, rugged mountains, including the Taurus, Koroglu and Pontic ranges. Many peaks exceed 10,000 feet, with the highest point being Mt. Ararat at 16,945 ft. (5,165m).
Along the Mediterranean coast the land is lower and very fertile. The Tigras, Kizilirmak, Sakarya and Euphrates are major rivers, and Lake Van the largest lake.
Land Divisions 81 provinces
Country Details
Ukraine gained its independence in 1991, with the breakup of the former Soviet Union.
All of Russia's former republics then formed the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with headquarters in Minsk, Belarus.
Rich in natural resources, Ukraine was once called the "Breadbasket of Europe," because of its fertile soil and beneficial climate conditions.
Sadly, the tragic 1986 Chornobyl nuclear accident (just north of Kiev) still lingers, and dangerous land contamination and radioactivity concerns are viable problems.
The Ukraine maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Ukraine
Capital City Kyiv (Kiev)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 49° 00'N, 32° 00'E
Languages Ukrainian, Russian, others
Official Currency Hryvna
Religions Ukrainian Orthodox, others
Population 49,506,000
Land Area 603,700 sq km (223,090 sq miles)
Landforms Mountainous areas southwest (the Carpathians), and south (the Crimean chain). Most of the land consists of fertile plains (steppes) and plateaus. Dnipro River and its many tributaries disect the country.
Land Divisions 24 oblasti, 2 municipalities and 1 autonomous republic
Description
Situated just off the coast of France on the edge of the English Channel, the beautiful Channel Islands, a British Crown dependency since 1066, are fiercely independent and justifiably proud of their history and traditions.
They're in fact, famous for stoic resistance during the German occupation in World War II, with remnants of that war still dotting the landscape.
This popular tourist destination is also an attractive offshore tax haven (for many companies), and as a result, the islands have a thriving financial industry. In addition, they're known worldwide for locally grown flowers and for their prized purebred Guernsey cows.
The local language and pubs may be English, but the islands were once a part of Normandy, so many of the place names and roads, as well as the food are decidedly French.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Channel Islands
Main Towns St. Helier, St. Peter Port and St. Anne
Flags of the islands here
Climate When compared to the mainland of Britain, the islands are temperate in nature, with mild, damp and cloudy winters, and warm, dry, sunnier summers.
Electricity 240V, 50Hz
Latitude/Longitude 49° 02'N, 2.2° W
Languages English
Official Currency Pound Sterling
Religions Anglican, Catholic, others
Population 162,000
Land Area 311 sq km (120 sq miles)
Time and Date in St. Helier
Details
Gibraltar, a self-governing British colony, is a small, narrow peninsula, located at the southern edge of Spain. It overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, and the northern coastal areas of Africa.
Over the centuries, Gibraltar's unique position at the western entrance of the Mediterranean Sea, made it the focus of territorial power struggles.
It was finally claimed by the British in 1713, and today it's an important air base and international port. In addition, tourists by the thousands travel here to tour the attractions, "The Rock," and to enjoy the wonderful weather.
The Gibraltar maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Gibraltar: a British Crown colony, claimed in 1713
Capital Gibraltar
Flag here
Languages English (official), Spanish, others
Latitude/Longitude 36° 11'N, 5° 22'W
Official Currency Gibraltar Pound
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 29,500 (est.)
Land Area 6.5 sq km (2.5 sq miles)
Landforms A spectacular rock monolith dominates the landscape. It looks similar to an arrowhead (depending on your veiw). It's called "The Rock," and it stands at 1,394 ft, (425m). The surrounding land is close to sea level with a few sandy beaches, There are no rivers.
Land Divisions None
Country Details
The Vatican, the worldwide headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, is bordered by a wall, and completely surrounded by the city of Rome, Italy.
It's the smallest state in the world, and includes: Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Palace (the Pope's formal residence), the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, and dozens of administrative buildings and historic monuments.
The Vatican maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name State of the Vatican City (Holy See)
Capital City not applicable
Major Cities not applicable
Bordering Countries Italy
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 41° 54'N, 12° 27'E
Languages Italian, Latin, others
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic
Population 882
Land Area .44 sq km (.17 sq miles)
Landforms It all sits on a low hill
Land Divisions none
WRITER:
KUMAYOON NAFRATH (NATHVI)
(DIP IN JOURNALIST, MEDIATOR)
President of I. S.H .O
MAP OF EUROPE
The Regions of Europe
01) western Europe
02) North Europe
03) Southern Europe
04) Eastern Europe
Continent Size:
9,938,000 sq km
3,837,081 sq miles
Percent of Earth's
Land: 6.7%
Population:
729,000,000 (2006)
Country Details
In the early 1990s, Albania abandoned its long-time Communist rule in favor of democracy and a move into the 21st Century.
Blessed with many natural resources, Albania has (for the most part) remained somewhat isolated from the world because of its mountainous topography and the policies of its former hard-line government.
In recent times the country has suffered economic hardships because of the onslaught (into Albania) of thousands of ethnic Albanian Muslims exiting the former Yugoslavia.
The Albania maps and information pasge are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Albania
Capital City Tiranë (353,000)
Population 3,079,000
Latitude/Longitude 41°N, 20°E
Official Currency Leek
Flag here
Languages Albanian (official), Greek
Religions Muslim (70%), Albanian Orthodox, Catholic
Ethnicity Albanian (95%), Greek, other
Land Area 27,400 sq km (10,579 sq miles)
Landforms A broad and swampy coastal plain fronts the Adriatic Sea. From there the land rises into hills and mountains.
Mountains cover most of the country, and major ranges include the Albanian Alps, and the Korab and Pindus Mountains. The highest point is Mt. Karabit (Korab Mtn. in Macedonia), at 9,066 ft. (2,764m).
Major lakes include Ohrid, Prespa both (shared with Macedonia) and Shkodra. Lake Ohrid is the deepest lake in the Balkans (935 ft.)
Significant rivers include the Drin and Vlore.
Land Divisions 36 districts, 1 municipality
Details Country
Andorra, located in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains, is the highest inhabited country in Europe.
Postage stamp size and about 1/5 the size of the U.S. State of Rhode Island, Andorra has no formal constitution, no income tax and no army.
With duty-free shopping, gorgeous scenery and great skiing, it attracts thousands of worldwide visitors on an annual basis.
The Andorra maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Andorra
Capital City Andorra la Vella (23,000)
Flag here
Languages Catalan (official), French
Latitude/Longitude 42° 30'N, 1° 30'E
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 71,800
Religions Catholic
Land Area 468 sq km (181 sq miles)
Landforms Andorra is very rugged. High mountains (the Pyrenees), cover the entire country. No part of Andorra is lower than 3,000 ft. (900m). The highest point is Coma Pedrosa at 9,665 ft. (2,946m). A few small, winding rivers are bordered by steep, narrow valleys.
Country Details
Armenia is a mountainous, landlocked country, on the southeastern edge of Europe, and at the gateway to the Middle East, and all of Asia.
That valuable geographical position for potential trade between continents became a curse of sorts. Over the centuries it was invaded and controlled by various empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Persian, and Ottoman.
Incorporated into the former Soviet Union in 1920, it finally, along with Azerbaijan, gained independence in 1991.
Regional fighting with its neighbor (Azerbaijan) over land control bloodied both countrys, and a cease-fire agreement was finally reached in 1994.
The local economy still suffers from the long-term ramifications of war, an Azerbaijan fuel blockade, and a very severe 1988 earthquake that destroyed much of its infrastructure, and killed over 55,000 of its citizens.
The Armenia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Armenia
Population 3,912,600
Capital City Yerevan (1.26 million)
Flag here
Languages Armenian (official), Russian
Latitude/Longitude 40° 00'N, 45° 00'E
Official Currency Dram
Religions Armenian Orthodox
Land Area 29,800 sq km (11,506 sq miles)
Landforms Armenia is a very mountainous country, almost totally covered by the Lesser (or Little) Caucasus Mountains. The highest point is Mt. Aragats at 13,418 ft. (4,090m)
Lake Sevan is the largest lake and it sits 6,000 ft, (2000m) above sea level. Significant rivers include the Aras, Debet and Razdan.
Land Divisions 10 provinces and 1 city,* including: Aragatsotn, Ararat, Armavir, Geghark'unik', Kotayk', Lorri, Shirak, Syunik', Tavush, Vayots' Dzor and Yerevan
Description
Inhabited since the Stone Age, the Austrian area has a long history of occupations, territorial struggles, war and rulers. The most significant rulers, the Germanic Habsburgs, ruled Austria for 640 years. Their imperial culture was centered in Vienna, a true masterpiece of a city.
That Austrian Empire (Habsburgs) were completely dismantled by 1918, at the end of World War I. During World War II, Adolf Hitler annexed all that remained into the German Third Reich. That war ended in 1945, with Hitler defeated, and the Allies began a brief occupation and reconstruction effort.
On May 15th, 1955, the Austrian State Treaty proclaimed Austria to be an independent republic, and its modern history began in earnest.
Landlocked in central Europe, Austria is today one of the continent's most influential countrys in both economic and political issues. Over the last half-century, the extraordinary Alpine scenery and cultural attractions of Austria and its cities, have transformed it into a major tourism destination.
Perhaps no one country can match the musical resumé of Austria. It's the homeland of legendary composers like Brahms, Haydn, Mahler, Mozart, Schubert and the Strausses - both father and son. In addition, the German-born Ludwig van Beethoven lived in Vienna for most of his adult life.
The current biography of Austria (the home of the Viennese Waltz, the Vienna Boys Choir and dancing Lipizzaner horses), is one of progress and stability.
Combine that with an abundance of natural beauty, spectacular mountain vistas, castles, cosmopolitan cities, the Danube River Valley, music festivals, and of course - world class Alpine skiing and resorts - and Austria paints a very pleasant picture, indeed.
Economy
Austria joined the European Union on January 1, 1995 along with Sweden and Finland.
Currency Euro (details here)
Currency Converter (here)
GDP $226 Billion
GDP (per capita) $27,700
GDP (by sector) agriculture (2%), industry (33%), services (65%)
Agriculture Products grains, potatoes, sugar beets, wine, fruit; dairy products, cattle, pigs, poultry; lumber
Exports (major) machinery and equipment, motor vehicles and parts, paper and paperboard, metal goods, chemicals, iron and steel; textiles, foodstuffs
Imports (major) machinery and equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, metal goods, oil and oil products; foodstuffs
Industries construction, machinery, vehicles and parts, food, chemicals, lumber and wood processing, paper and paperboard, communications equipment, tourism
Natural Resources iron ore, oil, timber, magnesite, lead, coal, lignite, copper, hydropower
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Austria
Official Name (local) Republik Oesterreich
Capital Vienna (Wien)
Currency Euro (details here)
Language (major) German
Population 8,037,400 (2003)
Population (4 largest cities) Vienna (1,523,000), Graz (219,000), Linz (185,000) Salzburg (145,000)
Religions Roman Catholic 78%, Protestant 5%, Muslim and other 17%
Government Info
Administrative Divisions 9 states: Burgenland, Kaernten, Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg and Wien
Executive Branch chief of state:
President Thomas Klestil
(additional government details here)
Government Type Federal Republic
Independence 1156 (from Bavaria)
National Holiday October 26 (National Day)
Land Statistics
LOCATION
(Absolute)
Latitude/Longitude 47° 20' N, 13° 20' E
(Relative)
Austria is a landlocked, central European country.
Bordering Countries (8) Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland
Border Length 1,682 miles, 2707 km
Area 32,377 sq miles, 83,858 sq km
(Land) 31,945 sq miles, 82,738 sq. km
(Water) 432 sq miles, 1,120 sq. km
Highest Point Grossglockner 12,460 ft. (3,798 m)
Web Cam: (here) Photo Page: (here)
Lowest Point Neusiedler See 508 ft. (155 m)
Length/Width 162/335 miles - 260/539 km
Coastline 0 (landlocked)
Mean Elevation unavailable
Country Details
Azerbaijan, located on the western edge of the Caspian Sea, sits at the crossroad between East and West. (Asia and Europe)
This valuable geographical position did not go unnoticed, and over the centuries numerous empires fought for control, including those of Alexander the Great, the Romans, the Mongol conqueror Genghis Khan, and Peter the Great of Russia.
Archaeologists believe that the remains of mankind found in Azerbaijan's Azykh Cave, are over one million years old, and the oldest ever found.
Today, this historic land is rich in cultural diversity, with over 70 ethnic groups calling it home. Merged into the former Soviet Union in 1936, it finally, along with Armenia, gained independence in 1991.
Regional fighting with its neighbor (Armenia) over land control bloodied both countrys, and a cease-fire agreement was finally reached in 1994.
At one time Azerbaijan supplied more than 50% of the world's oil. Today, in the oil fields in and around Baku, that industry still flourishes. Environmentally, the Caspian Sea suffers from related pollution.
The Azerbaijan maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Azerbaijan
Population 8,239,000
Capital City Baku (1,24 million)
Flag here
Languages Azeri, Russian, others
Latitude/Longitude 40° 30'N, 47° 30'E
Official Currency Manat
Religions Muslim, others
Land Area 89,600 sq km (33,436 sq miles) Note: this includes the Naxcivan Republic, southwest of Armenia.
Landforms Azerbaijan is a mountainous country, with the Caucasus Mountains covering the north and central. Many snow-capped peaks exceed 12,000 ft., with Baza-Dyuzi the highest point, at 14,698 ft. (4,480m).
Southwest, the Lesser Caucasus cross the land, stretching on into Armenia. In the far-south, the Talish Mountains help form its border with Iran.
A low flood plain covers the south-central and east, ending at the Caspian Sea; much of it below sea level. Baku, the capital city, sits on the Abseron Yasaqligi (or Apsheron Peninsula), that juts hook-line into the Caspian Sea
Significant rivers include the Alazani, Aras and Kura, and the Mangachevir Reservoir is the largest inland body of water.
Land Divisions 59 rayons (regions), 11 cities and 1 autonomous republic.
Country Details
Belarus (formerly Belorussia), translated as White Russia, gained its independence in 1991, with the breakup of the former Soviet Union (USSR).
All of Russia's former republics then formed the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with headquarters in Minsk.
The tragic results of the 1986 Chornobyl nuclear accident in neighboring Ukraine still linger, and the country struggles with environmental conditions in the south, and the overall health of its people.
The capital city of Minsk has an excellent mass-transit system (spotless subway), wide prospects, and plenty of gregarious people to make any visitor feel welcome.
The Belaurus maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Belarus
Population 10,044,000
Capital City Minsk (1.76 million)
Flag here
Languages Belorussian
Latitude/Longitude 53° 00'N, 28° 00'E
Official Currency Belarussian Rouble
Religions Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish
Land Area 207,600 sq km (80,154 sq miles)
Landforms Belarus is a flat, low-lying country that includes the Poltsk Lowland (north) and the Dnieper Lowland (south). The extensive Pripyat marshes cover the southern reaches of the country.
A few areas of rolling hills blend into the lowlands. They rise to the highest point, the Dzerzhinsky, at 1,135 ft. (346m)
The Dnieper is the most significant river. Others of importance include the Dvinar and Pripyat.
Landform pictures, and more here!
Land Divisions 6 voblasts and 1 municipality*, including: Brestskaya (Brest), Homyel'skaya (Homyel'), Horad Minsk*, Hrodzyenskaya (Hrodna), Mahilyowskaya (Mahilyow), Minskaya and Vitsyebskaya (Vitsyebsk).
Country Details
Ancient Belgium, once the Roman province of Gallia Belgica, is replete with a fascinating history of invading empires, kings, and a long list of ruling factions, both regal and righteous.
Modern Belgium, a self-sufficient, industrialized nation, is home base for NATO and the European Union (EU).
One of the Europe's great destinations, Belgium is known for its art, cathedrals, medieval cities and castles, fine chocolates, beers, gourmet foods and friendly, hospitable people.
Travelers can't get enough of Brussels, the stylish capital city, known for a variety of architecture, fashion, food and nitelife.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Kingdom of Belgium
Capital City Brussels (1.75 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 50° 50'N, 4° 00'E
Languages Dutch, French, German
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 10,339,000
Religions Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 32,820 sq km (12,672 sq miles)
Landforms The coastal area is a series of sandy beaches, backed by protecting dunes.
Inland, up to the Meuse River, the land is generally flat, with numerous canals and dikes. It's criss-crossed by many small tributaries of the Schelde River.
East of the Meuse, forested hilly conditions rise to the flat-topped mountains of the Ardennes Region. The highest point is the Botrange, at 2,276 ft. (694m).
Land Divisions 10 provinces, including: Antwerpen, Brabant Wallon, Hainaut, Liege, Limburg, Luxembourg, Namur, Oost-Vlaanderen, Vlaams Brabant, West-Vlaanderen; note - the Brussels Capitol Region is not included within the 10 provinces
Country Details
Bosnia was ruled by numerous forces over the centuries, finally declaring its independence from the former Yugoslavia in February of 1992.
Shortly thereafter, ethnic fighting in the western Balkans resulted in the destruction of many of its historic cities and landmarks, and the tragic death of thousands of its citizens.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (is today) the union of two factions; the Muslim-Croat federation and the Bosnian Serb republic.
Agriculture, mining and timber are important economic contributors, and the once vibrant tourism industry is slowly recovering.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Population 4,207,000
Capital City Sarajevo (581,000)
Flag here
Languages Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian
Latitude/Longitude 44° N, 18° E
Official Currency Marka (BAM)
Religions Muslim, Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 51,130 sq km (19,741 sq miles)
Landforms A very hilly country with the Dinaric Alps dominating the landscape. The highest point, Mt. Maglic, rises to 7,831 ft. (2,387m)
Thick forest cover almost 50% of the land. In the north, along the Sava River valley, a hilly, fertile plain stretches east to west.
The country has limited access to the Adriatic Sea through a small strip of land (about 12 miles wide) in the far-southwest.
Significant rivers include the Neretua, Sava, Vrbas, and the Bosna - the source of the country's name.
Land Divisions In stages of agreement and dispute
Country Details
Bulgaria, founded in 681 AD, is the homeland of ancient civilizations, and remnants of their cultures, and the ruins of their cities, palaces and monasteries are found throughout the country.
After centuries of Turkish control, military conflicts and fighting on the losing side in both World Wars, decades of Communist Party rule, and assorted political squabblings, Bulgaria is finally adjusting to its switch to democracy in the early 1990s.
Tourism is a real growth industry here, and Europeans frequent the beautiful city of Sofia, the numerous historic sites, as well as the resorts and spas on the Black Sea coast.
The Bulgaria maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Bulgaria
Population 7,917,855
Capital City Sofia (1.1 million)
Flag here
Languages Bulgarian
Latitude/Longitude 43° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Official Currency Lev
Religions Bulgarian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Land Area 110,550 sq km (42,683 sq miles)
Landforms The Balkan Mountains cut across the central part of the country, while the Rhodope Mountains run through southern Bulgaria, along its border with Greece.
The highest point in the country, located in the Rila Mountains, is Musala Mt., at 9,594 ft. (2,925 m).
North of the Balkan Mountains the fertile lowlands of the Danubian Plain slope gradually down to the Danube River. The south-eastern lowlands (Maritsa Basin), drained by a series of small rivers, slope to the Black Sea.
Major rivers include the Danube River, as it forms the northern border with Romania, and the Maritsa and Iskur.
Land Divisions 28 provinces, including: Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Dobrich, Gabrovo, Khaskovo, Kurdzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Pleven, Plovdiv, Razgrad, Ruse, Shumen, Silistra, Sliven, Smolyan, Sofiya, Sofiya-Grad, Stara Zagora, Turgovishte, Varna, Veliko Turnovo, Vidin, Vratsa and Yambol
Country Details
Once part of the Roman, Ottoman and Austrian Habsburg empires, Croatia finally declared its independence from the former Communist state of Yugoslavia in 1991.
Ethnic fighting in the western Balkans (in the 1990s) brought havoc to Croatia; historic cities and towns like (Dubrovnik and Zadar) were devastated; and even temporarily abandoned.
Croatia is a beautiful land, with a jagged coastline (the Dalmatian), one dotted with dozens of islands. Inland, the lower mountains and hills of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country.
Happily, Croatia's tourism is on the rebound, as its coastal resorts, Roman ruins, the capital city of Zagreb, and very pleasant weather make it one of the hottest destinations on the continent.
The Croatia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Croatia
Population 4,397,000
Capital City Zagreb (779,145)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 45° 10'N, 15° 30'E
Languages Croatian
Official Currency Kuna
Religions Catholic, Orthodox, others
Land Area 56,538 sq km (21,829 sq miles)
Landforms The land is fertile and mostly flat in the north and northeast, and the far northwest.
The Dinaric Alps and a few smaller mountain ranges (Velebit and Velika Kapela) slice through Croatia. The highest point is 6,005 ft. (1,831m)
The land is hilly, rocky and steep along the Dalmatian coastline, and on most of its offshore islands
Major rivers include the Sava, Drava and Danube.
Land Divisions 20 counties and 1 city*, including: Bjelovarsko-Bilogorska, Brodsko-Posavska, Dubrovacko-Neretvanska, Istarska, Karlovacka, Koprivnicko-Krizevacka, Krapinsko-Zagorska, Licko-Senjska, Medimurska, Osjecko-Baranjska, Pozesko-Slavonska, Primorsko-Goranska, Sibensko-Kninska, Sisacko-Moslavacka, Splitsko-Dalmatinska, Varazdinska, Viroviticko-Podravska, Vukovarsko-Srijemska, Zadarska, Zagreb* and Zagrebacka
Details
Cyprus, a onetime Greek colony and the site of many military incursions over the centuries, is still today, an island in conflict between two opposing factions.
The southern part of this Mediterranean island (the Greek Area) is called the Republic of Cyprus, and is controlled by the officially recognized Cyprus government.
About one-third of Cyprus is occupied by Turkey, and they call it the Republic of Northern Cyprus. That claim is not recognized by the United Nations, or any other country.
Because of a Turkish invasion in 1974, the United Nation's established a buffer zone (colored gray), and that zone runs through the middle of the island, dissecting the capital city of Nicosia.
Even though Cyprus gained its independence from the UK in 1960, there remains two British sovereign bases on the island. (colored yellow)
Through it all, this ancient island remains a popular regional tourist destination, one famed for its sunny weather and fascinating history.
The Cyprus maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Cyprus
Population 793,100, and that number does not include the estimated 115,000 Turks in the north.
Capital City Nicosia (pop. 207,000)
Languages Greek (official), English, Turkish
Latitude/Longitude 35° 00'N, 33° 00'E
Currency Greek Area: Euro, Turkish Area: Turkish Lira
Religions Greek Orthodox, Muslim
Flag here
Land Area 9,251sq km (3,372 sq miles)
Landforms A narrow band of mountains (the Kyrenia) slices across the north, while in the south, the Troodos Mountains dominate. Mt. Olympus is the highest point, at 6,403 ft., (1,951m). A somewhat fertile plain crosses the center of the island, with Nicosia at the southern end. The only rivers of size include the Pedias and Kariyoti.
Country Details
Formerly part of Czechoslovakia and landlocked in the middle of Europe, the Czech Republic is about the size of the U.S. State of New York.
It gained total independence in 1993 (splitting from Slovakia), with each forming a separate country.
Tourism is a major industry here, especially in the beautiful city of Prague, with its art nouveau architecture, castle, historic bridges, cobblestone streets, and much, much more.
The Czech Republic maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Czech Republic
Population 10,290,000
Capital City Prague (1.7 million)
Flag here
Languages Czech (official)
Latitude/Longitude 49° 45'N, 15° 30'E
Official Currency Koruna (CZK)
Religions Catholic, many others
Land Area 78,864 sq km (30,449 sq miles)
Landforms In essence, the Czech Republic is a large plateau surrounded by mountains, with a large slice of central lowland.
The Bohemian Plateau and Moravian Heights (very hilly land) of the south both slope to the disecting river valleys.
Bordering mountain ranges include the Carpathian, Ore, Sudetic and the Bohemian Forest mountains of the southwest. The highest point is Mt. Snezka, rising to 5,259 ft. (1,603m).
Significant rivers include the Elbe, Labe, Morava, Oder and Vltava.
Land Divisions 13 regions, including: Jihocesky Kraj, Jihomoravsky Kraj, Karlovarsky Kraj, Kralovehradecky Kraj, Liberecky Kraj, Moravskoslezsky Kraj, Olomoucky Kraj, Pardubicky Kraj, Plzensky Kraj, Praha*, Stredocesky Kraj, Ustecky Kraj, Vysocina, and Zlinsky Kraj
Details
The rugged Faeroe Islands (18 in all), are in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 250 miles (402 km) directly north of Scotland.
First settled by the Norwegian Vikings, these islands, politically connected to Denmark since the 14th Century, have enjoyed home rule since 1948, and continually strive for full sovereignty.
Many of the inhabitants live in and around the Thorshavn area, the administrative capital and largest city in the islands.
With very little cultivated land, sheep raising is a significant business, and in fact, the name Faeroe Islands is said to mean "Sheep Islands." Fishing, and offshore oil finds help diversify the economy.
Ferries and shipping companies link the islands to the European mainland, and tourism is a growing business.
The Faeroe Island's maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Faeroe Islands
(alt. Faroe, or Føroyar) a self governing territory of Denmark, claimed in 1380
Administrative Capital Torshavn
Flag here
Languages Faeroese, Danish
Latitude/Longitude 62º 00' N, 7º 00' W
Official Currency Danish Krone
Religions Lutheran
Population 46,345
Land Area 1,399 sq km (540 sq miles)
Landforms Similar to Iceland, the Faeroes are lava based islands with elevated coastal cliffs and some elevated peaks. The highest point (on Eysturoy) rises to 2,894 ft. (882m)
Grass grows along the base of local mountains, but few trees survive because of the relentless North Atlantic winds.
Description
First explored and named by Erik the Red (982-985), this isolated land was initially settled by hardy souls from the nearby island of Iceland. Later, his son, Leif Erickson, returns to Greenland from Norway, and development continues.
Subsequently claimed by Denmark in 1380, Greenland is nevertheless geographically considered part of the North American continent, and is the world's largest (non-continent) island, with approximately 85% of it covered by ice.
A note regarding Greenland...
It voted in favor of increased self-rule in November 2008 and acquired complete responsibility for internal affairs in June 2009. Denmark, however, continues to exercise control of Greenland's foreign affairs, security, and financial policy in consultation with Greenland's Home Rule Government.
So, Greenland is still considered a part of Denmark, and not recognized as an official independent country. In fact, it's a constituent country; a country that remains a part of another entity, such as a sovereign state. In this case, the country of Denmark
Read more about Greenland, and its fascinating history here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Greenland
Capital City Godthab (Nuuk)
Population 57,564 (July 2007 est.)
Largest Cities N.A.
Languages Greenlandic (East Inuit), Danish, English
Latitude/Longitude 72º N, 40º W
Official Currency Danish Krone
(the latest conversion rates) here!
Religions Evangelical Luthern
Flag and description here!
Land
Land Area 2,166,086 sq km (839,999 sq miles)
Landforms The coastline is rugged, mountainous and barren. The land then rises to a sloping icecap that covers most of the island.
Highest Point Mt. Gunnbjorn 3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Country Details
A Brief Description:
Estonia, the smallest of the Baltic States, was ruled for many centuries by Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian factions. Historically, it has been attacked, sacked, razed and pillaged on numerous occasions
When the former Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, it gained its long-awaited independence. Subsequently, the somewhat new country of Estonia is now forging modern relationships with the west, including the (EU).
The local economy still revolves around varied agricultural industries. Recently, however, tourism has increased, as it's become a popular cruise ship destination because of the medieval architecture and the history of its charming capital
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Estonia
Population 1,307,605
Capital City Tallinn (382,000)
Flag here
Languages Estonian
Latitude/Longitude 59° 00'N, 26° 00'E
Official Currency Kroon
Religions Lutheran, Orthodox Christain, others
Land Area 45,125 sq km (17,423 sq miles)
Landforms Almost completely surrounded by water, much of Estonia's land is low and flat (close to sea level). There are a few large islands off the western coastline, and dozens of smaller ones.
Central and south, the land is hillier, rising to its highest point - the Munamagi - at 1,042 ft. (318m)
Numerous small lakes dot the western parts of the country. -The largest lakes includes Peipus and Pskov, (shared with Russia) and Lake Vorts-Jarv.
Rivers of size include the Manamagi and Parnu.
Land Divisions 15 counties, including: Harjumaa, Hiiumaa, Ida-Virumaa, Jarvamaa, Jogevamaa, Laanemaa, Laane-Virumaa, Parnumaa, Polvamaa, Raplamaa, Saaremaa, Tartumaa, Valgamaa, Viljandimaa and Vorumaa. city of Tallinn.
Country Details
European Russia Description
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains. It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather commonly called European Russia because of its cultural, political and social blendings with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia
Facts and Figures
Name Russia
(long form) Russian Federation
Population 143,420,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Moscow (10.9 million)
Currency Russian Ruble (RUR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Russian, numerous minority dialects
Flag here
National Day June 12
Religions Russian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
55º 45' N, 37º 42' E
Relative Location Positioned in northern Asia, Russia is in both the northern and eastern hemispheres. The country is dissected by the Arctic Circle, and also separated into two recognized landmasses by the Ural Mountains; its land west of those mountains is referred to as European Russia, and includes the capital city of Moscow.
The country is bordered by the Arctic and Pacific Oceans, a dozen seas, and 14 countries, including Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Norway, Poland, (Kaliningrad Oblast) and the Ukraine.
Land Statistics
Coastline 23,396 miles (37,653 km)
Land Areas
(land) 6,562,112 sq miles (16,995,800sq km)
(water) 30,657 sq miles (79,400 sq km)
(TOTAL) 17,075,200 sq miles (6,592,769 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The broad European Plain, or Volga River Plain extends from the Ural Mountains to its western borders with Europe. In the far southwest the Caucasus Mountains slice across the land. The country's highest point, Mt. Elbrus, is located there.
The central and southern areas include large fertile areas, marsh, steppes (plains without trees) and massive coniferous forests.
Siberia is a combination of frozen tundra, with rolling hills rising to plateaus, and numerous rugged mountain ranges. The northeast, south-central and southeast areas are covered by a wide variety of mountain ranges. A few on the Kamchatka Peninsula contain active volcanoes.
Russia has more than 100,000 rivers with a length of 7 miles, or greater. Significant rivers include the Volga, Dnieper and Dvina (west), the Lena, Ob, and Yenisey (central) and the Amur in the far east. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, at 5,310 ft. (1,620m).
Russia is approximately 5,592 miles, (9000km) west to east.
Highest Point Mt. Elbrus - 18,481 ft. (5,633 m)
Lowest Point Caspian Sea - (-92 ft.) (-28 m)
Land Divisions 48 oblasts, 21 republics, 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal cities and 1 autonomous oblast. List of names here!
Country Details
Description:
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather called European Russia because of its political and cultural blending with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia.
The Russian Federation - spread over all climate zones (except tropical) - is the world's largest country, with land that stretches halfway around the planet.
In fact, by airplane from Moscow, it takes over 8 hours to reach Vladivostok on its far eastern coast.
Moscow is the country's major economic and political center; it's the seat of the President, the government and the State Duma.
To learn more about the dynamics of this unparrelled land, visit this page.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Russian Federation
Population 145,934,000
Capital City Moscow (8.4 million)
Largest Cities (metro areas) Moscow (12 million), St. Petersburg (4.8 million), Nizhnij Novgorod (1.9 million), Novosibirsk (1.4 million), Sverdlovsk (1.4 million)
Languages Russian (official), others
Official Currency Ruble
Currency Converter (here)
Religions Russian Orthodox, others
Flag here
Land Area The country is approximately 5,592 miles, (9000km) west to east, with a total land area of 17,075,400 sq km, (6,592,812 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 55º 75N, 37º 62E
Land Borders 36,388 miles (58,562 km), with 8,845 miles (14,253 km) bordering countries, and 27,532 miles (44,309 km) bordering oceans and seas.
Landforms The broad European Plain, or Volga River Plain extends from the Ural Mountains to its western borders. In the far southwest the Caucasus Mountains slice across the land. The country's highest point, Mt. Elbrus, is located here, at 18,481 ft. (5,633m). The central and southern areas include large fertile areas, marsh, steppes (plains without trees) and massive coniferous forests. Siberia is a combination of frozen tundra, with rolling hills rising to plateaus, and numerous rugged mountain ranges. The northeast, south-central and southeast areas are covered by a wide variety of mountain ranges. A few on the Kamchatka Peninsula are active volcanoes. Russia has more than 100,000 rivers with a length of 7 miles, or greater. Significant rivers include the Volga, Dnieper and Dvina (in the east) and the Lena, Ob, and Yenisey (central). Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, at 5,310 ft. (1,620m).
Land Divisions The Russian Federation is divided into 21 republics, 6 krays (federal territories), 2 federal cities, 49 regions (oblasts), 1 autonomous region and 10 autonomous areas. It has 1,067 major cities, with 13 having a population of one million, or more.
Details
Corsica, a region of France, was ruled over the centuries by the Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Goths and Saracens. It was eventually sold to France by the Genoese.
Located in the western Mediterranean, just to the north of Sardinia, it's 160 km (99 miles) southeast of Nice, France, and 82 km (51 miles) west of Tuscany, Italy.
Famous for its independent spirit, rugged beauty, olive oil, wine and citrus fruit, Corsica was the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its major industry is tourism, with many visitors arriving by ferry.
The Corsica pages are currently being revised, but you can find additional information about the history of the island here.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Corsica
Capital City Ajaccio (population, 55,000)
Flag here
Languages French (official), but a large number of Corsicans speak Corsican, or (Corsu)
Latitude/Longitude 41° 55'N, 8° 44'E
Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 246,000
Land Area 8,682 sq km (3,352 sq miles)
Landforms Corsica is referred to as the Mountain in the Sea. Its highest point is Monte Cintu at 8,888 ft. (2710m).
This mountainous island has twenty peaks over 2000m, and an average altitude of 560m.
Corsica has the highest mountains and the most rivers (small streams) of any Mediterranean island.
Country Details
Georgia, situated at the dividing line of Asia and Europe, is an ancient country of rugged mountains and very determined people.
Annexed by Russia in 1801, it regained its sovereignty in 1918. It then suffered through 70 years of Communist rule and suppression, finally declaring its independence from Russia in 1991.
The people here say they "Never Gave Up," and those people now have their long-desired freedom.
Traditionally an agricultural land - quite famous for its wines - tourism is on front-burner in Georgia as international travel has increased - especially along the Black Sea coastal areas.
The Georgia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Georgia
Population 5,334,000
Capital City T'Bilisi (1.24 million)
Flag here
Languages Georgian (official), Armenian, Russian
Latitude/Longitude 42° 00'N, 43° 30'E
Official Currency Lari
Religions Christian Orthodox, Muslim, others
Land Area 69,700 sq km (26,911 sq miles)
Landforms Georgia is a very mountainous country. The rugged Caucasus Mountains stretch across the northern third, while central and south, the Lesser Caucasus Mountains dominate the landscape.
The country's highest point, (100% within its borders) is Mt. Kazbek, rising to 16,558 ft. (5,047m).
Mt. Shkhara, is a few meters higher, and its southern slopes front Georgia, but it's mostly located in Russia, just to the southeast of Mt. Elbrus. It rises to 16,627 ft. (5,068m).
Europe's highest point, (Mt. Elbrus) is located just over Georgia's northern border. It reaches 18,841 ft. (5,633m).
The Kolkhida Lowlands front the Black Sea in the west, and numerous small rivers drain the area. The most significant rivers include the Kura and Rioni.
Land Divisions 9 districts, 65 regions
Country Details
Hungary, landlocked in eastern Europe, is bordered by seven countrys and divided almost in half by the massive Danube River.
Once one of the largest kingdoms in Europe, it suffered through many centuries of invasions, unwanted occupations, two World Wars and the Communist Party.
Recently a free-market economy has emerged; Hungary joined NATO in 1999, and will join the European Union (EU), in 2004.
The country's crown jewel is the dazzling capital city of Budapest, known for its architectural style, amazingly diverse restaurants, Gypsy music and friendly people.
The Hungary maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Hungary
Population 10,164,000
Capital City Budapest (1.77 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 20° 00'E
Languages Hungarian (official)
Official Currency Forint
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 92,340 sq km (35,652 sq miles)
Landforms Hungary is a mostly flat country, dominated by the Great Hungarian Plain east of the Danube.
The land rises into hills and some low mountains in the north along the Slovakian border. The highest point is Mt Kekes at 3,330 ft. (1,015m)
The Danube is the major river, as it divides the country almost in half. Other rivers of significance include the Drava and Tisza.
Land Divisions 19 counties, 20 urban counties* and 1 capital city**, including: Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Bekes, Bekescsaba*, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Budapest**, Csongrad, Debrecen*, Dunaujvaros*, Eger*, Fejer, Gyor*, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Hajdu-Bihar, Heves, Hodmezovasarhely*, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Kaposvar*, Kecskemet*, Komarom-Esztergom, Miskolc*, Nagykanizsa*, Nograd, Nyiregyhaza*, Pecs*, Pest, Somogy, Sopron*, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Szeged*, Szekesfehervar*, Szolnok*, Szombathely*, Tatabanya*, Tolna, Vas, Veszprem, Veszprem*, Zala, Zalaegerszeg*
Country Details
The first settlers came to Iceland from Norway and Ireland in the 9th century.
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, directly east of Greenland, Iceland is Europe's westernmost country, the second largest island in the North-Atlantic ocean, and a little over 3 hours flight from London, Paris or Copenhagen.
For many modern decades it has a strong economy, low unemployment, low inflation, and a per capita income among the highest in the world. Due to the 2009 worldwide economic collapse, Iceland now suffers through a severe financial crisis.
The Iceland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Iceland
Capital City Reykjavik
Major Cities/Towns here
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 65° 00'N, 18° 00'W
Languages Icelandic (official)
Official Currency Krona
Religions Evangelical Lutheran, others
Population 279,384
Land Area 100,250 sq km (38,707 sq miles)
Landforms It's largely an arctic desert punctuated by mountains, glaciers, geysers, hot springs, volcanoes and waterfalls. Most of the vegetation and agricultural areas are in the lowlands close to the coastline.
Its most distinctive features are the glaciers. They cover over 11,922 sq. km (4,600 sq. mi) or 11. 5% of the total area of the country. During the past few decades, however, they've markedly thinned and retreated owing to a milder climate.
By far the largest of the glaciers is the Vatnajokull in southeast Iceland, with an area of 8,400 sq. km (3,240 sq. mi), it's equal in size to all the glaciers on the European mainland put together. It reaches a thickness of 1 km (3000 ft.)
Highest Point Oraefajokull (2,199 meters) (6,952 ft)
Land Divisions 23 counties, 14 independent towns.
Fast Facts
Population 1,655,677 (2006 est)
Capital City Cagliari (159,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude (Cagliari) 38º 08' N, 013º 23' E
Languages Italian, Sardinian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 24,090 sq km (9,301 sq miles)
Landforms Most of the Sardinia is a mountainous plateau that gradually slopes to the sea. The highest point, Punta La Marmora, rises to 6,017 ft. (1,834m). The mountainous terrain is drained by many small rivers and streams, and is punctuated by wide green valleys, all covered by scrub and grassy land. Flatter areas (plains) cover much of the coastline
Sardinia
Sardinia is Italy's second largest island and the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It's also a geographical and political region of Italy, famed for its beautiful beaches and fascinating history.
Over many centuries it's survived countless invasions by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, and local festivals on the island still reflect the long-lasting impact of those cultures.
Numerous prehistoric castles, villages, temples and tombs dot the countryside, and with its perfect weather, tourists arrive in droves, most using the dependable ferry service from the Italian mainland
Facts
Population 5,132,000
Capital City Palermo (680,810)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude (Palermo) 38º 08' N, 013º 23' E
Languages Italian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 25,706 sq km (9,925 sq miles)
Landforms Most of the island is a mountainous plateau. The highest point, Mt. Etna (an active volcano), rises to 10,902 ft. (3,323m). The central plateau slopes to coastal lowlands and some fertile areas drained by many small rivers amd streams. The significant rivers include the Salso and Simeta.
Sicily
Sicily is Italy's largest island and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It's also a geographical and political region of Italy, famed for its beautiful beaches, cuisine, and fascinating history.
Because of its strategic location, Sicily was invaded over the centuries by many armies, and was once the site of Roman, Greek and Phoenician colonies. For history-buffs and interested tourists, remnants of those cultures remain to this day.
Sicily's economy is based largely on agriculture, fishing, mining, and of course...tourism. Many visitors to the island use the dependable ferry service from the Italian mainland to Messina. Also there is ferry or hydrofoil service to Palermo from ports throughout the central Mediterranean
Country Details
Latvia, an ancient Baltic land, was controlled over the centuries by many factions, including the wide-reaching Russian empire of Catherine the Great.
After centuries of regional revolution and war, it finally gained its independence when the former Soviet Union broke apart in 1991. It quickly embraced the west, joined the United Nations, and began a rebuild of its economic base.
Latvia is a fertile land with a strong dairy industry, and a solid textile, chemical and electronic manufacturing base. Riga, the capital city, is a significant Baltic seaport.
The long, sandy coastline facing the Baltic, and its interior beauty and history are growing attractions for tourists from Europe and the Americas.
The Latvia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Latvia
Population 2,290,000
Capital City Riga (706,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 57° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Languages Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian
Official Currency Lats
Religions Lutheran, Catholic, Russian Orthodox
Land Area 64,589 sq km (24,938 sq miles)
Landforms Latvia is (overall) a very flat country with some high hills to the east of Riga. Its highest point, the Vidzeme, rises to 1,020 ft. (311m)
Small lakes and swamps dot the countryside. Important rivers include the Daugava, Lielupe and Ventas.
Land Divisions 26 counties and 7 municipalities, including: Aizkraukles Rajons, Aluksnes Rajons, Balvu Rajons, Bauskas Rajons, Cesu Rajons, Daugavpils*, Daugavpils Rajons, Dobeles Rajons, Gulbenes Rajons, Jekabpils Rajons, Jelgava*, Jelgavas Rajons, Jurmala*, Kraslavas Rajons, Kuldigas Rajons, Liepaja*, Liepajas Rajons, Limbazu Rajons, Ludzas Rajons, Madonas Rajons, Ogres Rajons, Preilu Rajons, Rezekne*, Rezeknes Rajons, Riga*, Rigas Rajons, Saldus Rajons, Talsu Rajons, Tukuma Rajons, Valkas Rajons, Valmieras Rajons, Ventspils* and Ventspils Rajons. (municipalities*)
Country Details
Established within the Holy Roman Empire in 1719, Liechtenstein became a sovereign state in 1806.
One of the world's smallest countries, it's closely associated with Switzerland for its defense.
A strong industrialized land known as a tax haven for banks and investment companies, it's also an excellent Alpine skiing destination.
The Liechtenstein maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Liechtenstein
Capital City Vaduz
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 47° 10'N, 9° 32'E
Languages German (official)
Official Currency Swiss Franc
Religions Catholic, others
Population 32,119
Land Area 160 sq km (62 sq miles)
Landforms The Rhine River valley covers the western third of the country, with the mountainous (Alps) the balance.
Land Divisions 11 communes, including: Balzers, Eschen, Gamprin, Mauren, Planken, Ruggell, Schaan, Schellenberg, Triesen, Triesenberg, and Vaduz.
Country Details
Lithuania, the southern-most Baltic state, was once a powerful force in medieval Europe.
In modern times it suffered from the tragic impact of a German invasion during World War II, and the almost 60 years of failed Communist rule.
When the former Soviet Union collasped in 1991, it finally gained its independence.
Lithuania is slowly adapting to western economic policies, and its economy, though changing, still depends on a strong agricultural base.
The Lithuania maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Lithuania
Population 3,491,000
Capital City Vilnius (543,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 56° 00'N, 24° 00'E
Languages Lithuanian, Polish, Russian
Official Currency Litas
Religions Catholic, Russian Orthodox, Protestant, others
Land Area 65,200 sq km (25,174 sq miles)
Landforms Lithuania is mostly flat lowlands in the west, with some low hills
In the east and southeast, bogs, small lakes, and the rolling hills of the Baltic Highlands dominate the landscape.
Its highest point - the Juazapine - stands at 964 ft. (294m). Important rivers include the Neman, Neris and Venta.
Land Divisions 44 regions and 11 municipalities
Country Details
Luxembourg is a country that literally developed around its capital city of the same name. It's smaller than the U.S. State of Rhode Island.
Founded in 963, Luxembourg (the city) known by the Roman (Luciilinburhuc), endured many centuries of cultural and political change. Then, in 1867, it was declared permanately neutral.
In the 1940s, it ended that long-held neutrallity, and joined many of the modern European positions and organizations. It in fact became one of the six founding members of the European Union. (EU)
This beautiful, historic slice of land is today a prosperous constitutional monarchy, known as a international tax haven and banking center.
The Luxembourg maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Capital City Luxembourg (78,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 49° 45'N, 6° 10'E
Languages Letzeburgish, German, French
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 451,700 (2003 est.)
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 2,585 sq km (998 sq miles)
Landforms A landlocked country of thick, green forests that cover rolling hills and low mountains.
The northern region, (Oesling) is a ridged plateau, with land that suffers from bad soil composition, and remains (for the most part) unproductive.
The Andrennes (low mountains) slice across its northern boder with Belgium. Burgplatz, the countrys highest point, stands at 1,843 ft. (559m).
Gotland, the southern region, is blessed with fertile soil and nourishing rivers.
Important rivers include the Alzette, Eisch, Moselle, Our and Sure. The largest lake is Haute Sure.
Land Divisions 3 districts, including: Diekirch, Grevenmacher, and Luxembourg
Country Details
The historic country of Macedonia was once the Kingdom of Macedon, ruled by Alexander the Great (355-325 BC)
Over many centuries it was exploited by the Romans, Byzantines, Bulgars and Serbs; finally conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
As Communism was collapsing and the former Yugoslavia was dissolving, its long-desired independence from Yugoslavia (in 1991) was delayed for awhile by Greece; it objected to its use of the Hellenic name (and symbols), as Macedonia is also a large, historic part of northern Greece.
Macedonia's first parliamentary election were held in 1994, and Greece lifted its trade blockade in 1995. The two countries agreed to normalize relations, but disagreement over the name continues.
The Macedonia maps and information pages pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Macedonia
Capital City Skopje (452,000)
Population 2,114,550
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 41° 50'N, 22° 00'E
Languages Macedonian, Albanian, others
Official Currency Macedonian Denar
Religions Eastern Orthodox, Musim, others
Land Area 25,715 sq km (9,929 sq miles)
Landforms Macedonia is an elevated plateau of large, rolling hills and deep valleys, completely disected and surrounded by mountains. The Dinaric Alps extend down into Macedonia, and the highest point is in the Korab Mountain range, at 9,066 ft. (2,764m).
Major lakes include Ohrid, Prespa (both shared with Albania) and Doiran. Lake Ohrid is the deepest lake in the Balkans (935 ft.)
The Vardar River divides the country; other rivers of note include the Bregalnica and Cma.
Land Divisions 34 counties and 123 municipalities
Country Details
Malta, a country composed of three major islands, is located in the Mediterranean Sea, just 58 miles south of Sicily, Italy.
Once part of the Roman Empire, it was seized and controlled by many factions over the centuries, including Napoleon.
Malta's valuable military position was coveted by many, and it 1814, it became a British colony. That British control ended in 1964, as Malta gained its independence.
With sparse areas of fertile land, its shipping and port facilities are economically important, but it's tourism that provides the major financial impact.
The Malta maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Malta
Capital City Valletta
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 35° 50'N, 14° 35'E
Languages Maltese (official), English (official)
Official Currency Euro
Religions Catholic, others
Population 402,000 (2003 est.)
Land Area 320 sq km (124 sq miles)
Landforms Mostly low, rocky land with rugged, steep coastal cliffs.
Land Divisions none
Country Details
Moldova, an ancient land of castles, was frequently controlled by invading forces throughout its long history, including those from Hungary, Poland, and the Turkish Ottoman Empire.
After a long association with Romania, it was absorbed into the former Soviet Union (USSR) during World War II. It then gained its independence from Russia in 1991, to become an independent, neutral state.
Famed for sparkling wine production, at one time it supplied Russia with over 300 million bottles of wine annually. Still suffering from the impact of the former Communist system, its future now rests on the fertile land, as it's ideally suited for a variety of agricultural industries.
The Moldova maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Moldova
Capital City Chisinau
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 29° 00'E
Languages Moldovan (official), Russian, others
Official Currency Moldovan Leu
Religions Easterm Orthodox
Population 4,762,000
Land Area 33,700 sq km (13,000 sq miles)
Landforms The land is hilly with a subtle slope south toward the Black Sea. Important rivers include the Nistru, Byk, and the Prut which forms its entire western border with Romania.
Land Divisions 10 juletule, 1 municipality* and 1 autonomous unit**; including: Balti, Cahul, Chisinau, Chisinau*, Dubasari, Edinet, Gagauzia**, Lapusna, Orhei, Soroca, Tighina and Ungheni
Country Details
Monaco, an ancient principality, covers about two square miles, and has been ruled since the 14th century by the Grimaldi family.
It has the highest population density of any country, enjoys many tax benefits, and of course it's the home of the glittering Monte Carlo Casino.
UPDATE: Prince Rainier III of Monaco, whose marriage to American film star Grace Kelly brought elegance and glamor to one of Europe's oldest dynasties, died, April 6, 2005, at age 81.
The Monaco maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Principality of Monaco
Capital City Monaco
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 43° 44'N, 7° 24'E
Languages French (official), English
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 29,972
Land Area 1.95 sq km (.75 sq miles)
Landforms Very hilly, rugged and rocky
Land Divisions none
Country Details
On July 1, 2006, the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, as well as other many additional countries around the world now recognize both Montenegro and Serbia as separate nations. We are in the process of creating separate maps and individual pages for both countries, and hope to have them on line in the very near future.
Serbia's capital is Belgrade, and Montenegro's is now Podgorica. Kosovo, a region of Serbia, is administrated by NATO and the United Nations.
In 1999, the world watched in horror as the Serbs began a massive expulsion of ethnic Albanians living in Kosovo. That action provoked an international response that included the bombing of Serbia, and the positioning of NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo.
Within months, Serbia's former leader (Slobodan Milosevic) was arrested; awaiting trial in The Hague, Netherlands for crimes against humanity, he died.
The Serbia and Montenegro map pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Status of Kosovo here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Name Serbia & Montenegro (formerly Yugoslavia)
Population 10,655,000 (with approximately 600,000 living in Montenegro)
Capital Cities Belgrade (Serbia), Podgorica (Montenegro)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 44° 00'N, 21° 00'E
Languages Serbian, Albanian
Official Currency Serbia (Dinar), Montenegro (Euro)
Religions Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic, others
Land Area 102,173 sq km (39,449 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged mountains, hills and valleys of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country, west of the Morava River. The highest point, Daravica, rises to 8,712 ft. (2,656m).
The toothy-edge Balkan Mountains form its natural borders with Bulgaria and Romania.
A fertile river floodplain (the Pannonian) stretches from Belgrade north to the borders with Croatia, Hungary and Romania.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Drina, lim, Morava, Sava and Tara. Lake Skadar is shared with Albania.
Land Divisions 2 republics and 2 autonomous provinces (Kosovo and Vojvodina)
Country Details
Poland, a central European country, is situated on the southern end of the Baltic Sea.
It's an ancient land, one with a tragic history of military invasions, occupations and the brutal experience of warfare.
Since the end of World War II, and the eventual fall of Communism, Poland has moved to a free-market system. It still struggles with a complete economic revolution, but the 21st Century has definitely arrived.
Coal production (is and was) a major industry, but Poland is also a productive farming nation, (livestock, potatoes and wheat) and an offshore petroleum producer.
Tourism is on the increase in Warsaw, and hiking and skiing aficionados are now venturing into the southern mountain regions.
The Poland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Poland
Population 38,576,000
Capital City Warsaw (1.6 million)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 52° 00'N, 20° 00'E
Languages Polish (official)
Official Currency Zloty
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 304,460 sq km (117,552 sq miles)
Landforms Fronting the Baltic Sea, a lowland plain blends into sandy beaches and dunes.
The northern regions are somewhat hilly while flat fertile farmlands dominate the Central Lowlands.
Moving south, the land rises into hilly uplands that front the Sudetic and Carpathian Mountain ranges. The tallest peaks are in the Tatra Mountains. The highest point is Rysy at 8,187 ft. (2,499m)
The Oder, Vistula and Warta are the country's major rivers. Numerous small lakes dot the far northeast.
Land Divisions 16 provinces, including: Dolnoslaskie, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Lodzkie, Lubelskie, Lubuskie, Malopolskie, Mazowieckie, Opolskie, Podkarpackie, Podlaskie, Pomorskie, Slaskie, Swietokrzyskie, Warminsko-Mazurskie, Wielkopolskie and Zachodniopomorskie
Country Details
An independent kingdom since 1143, Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe.
In 1415, the Portuguese set sail on epic voyages that would make them the first to discover the ocean routes to India, Brazil, China and Japan, and at the same time establish settlements on the east and west coasts of Africa.
A member-country of the European Union since 1986, Portugal currently enjoys a steady economic growth and is world famous for its wine, its history and its hospitality.
The Portugal maps and information pages are currently being revised, and they will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Portugal
Capital City Lisbon (2.6 million)
Flag here
Languages Portuguese (official)
Latitude/Longitude 39° 30N, 8°W
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Population 10,366,000
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 91,950 sq km (35,502 sq miles)
Landforms Mountains and high hills cover the northern third of Portugal, including an extension of the Cantabrian Mountains from Spain.
The mainland's highest point is a peak in the Serra da Estrela, at 6,532 ft. (1,991m). Note: Portugal's overall highest point (Pico Volcano ) is located in the Azores (an autonomous region) on the island of Pico. It stands at 7,713 ft. (2,351m).
Further south and west, the land slopes to rolling hills and lowlands, and a broad coastal plain.
Major rivers include the Douro, Guadiana and the Tagus. There are no inland lakes.
Land Divisions 18 districts, including: Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria, Lisboa, Portalegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real and Viseu.
Autonomous regions include the Azores and the Madeira islands.
Details
The widely-separated Azores, 972 miles (1564 km) directly west of Lisbon, Portugal, includes nine islands (all volcanic in origin).
Colonized by the Portuguese in the mid-15th century, their strategic position near the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is their most valuable asset.
Today the Azores are an important mid-ocean refueling and pit-stop for commercial airlines, cruise ships, international shipping, and private yachts.
Famous for deep sea fishing, local cheeses, red and white wine production, and many varieties of tropical fruit - the islands are becoming a increasingly popular tourist destination.
The Azores' maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Azores,
an autonomous region of Portugal since 1439
Administrative Capital Ponta Delgada
Flag here
Languages Portuguese (official)
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 242,000
Land Area 2,355 sq km (893 sq miles)
Landforms The forested islands are volcanic in origin and ringed by long, sandy beaches. The highest point is the Pico Volcano, at (2,351 m)
Country Details
Romania (Land of the Romans) was conquered by the Romans in 106 AD, and became the Roman province of Dacia.
For many centuries it suffered through unwanted incursions and occupations. Then, in 1947, it abolished the monarchy and declared itself a republic.
Beginning in 1967, internal conditions got much worse, as the country entered a most repressive time. Nicolae Ceausescu assumed the presidency and his brutal dictatorial rule of corruption, terror and human rights violations almost ruined Romania.
His regime finally ended during the revolution of 1989. Ceausescu (and his wife), were captured, quickly brought to trial, then executed.
Since then, Romania has taken a bold step toward a free-market economy. Black Sea resorts, hiking and skiing in the Carpathian Mountains, and the Transylvania region (of Count Dracula legend) are international tourist favorites.
The Romania maps and information pages are currently being revised, and they will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Romania
Capital City Bucharest
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 46° 00'N, 25° 00'E
Languages Romanian (official), Hungarian, German, others
Official Currency Leu
Religions Romanian Orthodox, Catholic, others
Population 22,291,000
Land Area 230,340 sq km (88,934 sq miles)
Landforms The Carpathian Mountains and the Carpatii Mountains (Transylvanian Alps) almost encircle the central plain. Those mountains slope down into much flatter land in the south and southeast.
The Prut River forms its eastern border with Moldova, and the Danube River forms its southern border with Bulgaria, then flowing north and east into the Black Sea.
Land Divisions 40 counties, 1 municipality
Country Details
European Russia Description
European Russia is the mass of Russian land west of the Ural Mountains. It's indicated above in a medium shade of green, fronting Europe.
It is not a separate country, but rather commonly called European Russia because of its cultural, political and social blendings with European countries and peoples.
St. Petersburg and Moscow, (the capital) are located in European Russia. Regardless, the entire country is (geographically) still considered a part of Asia
Facts and Figures
Name Russia
(long form) Russian Federation
Population 143,420,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Moscow (10.9 million)
Currency Russian Ruble (RUR)
Currency Converter here
Languages Russian, numerous minority dialects
Flag here
National Day June 12
Religions Russian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
55º 45' N, 37º 42' E
Highest Point Mt. Elbrus - 18,481 ft. (5,633 m)
Lowest Point Caspian Sea - (-92 ft.) (-28 m)
Land Divisions 48 oblasts, 21 republics, 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal 9 autonomous okrugs, 2 federal cities and 1 autonomous oblast. List of names
Country Details
San Marino is the oldest state in Europe, and the third smallest country in Europe, when compared to the Vatican and Monaco.
According to tradition, it was founded in AD 301 when a Christian stonemason named (Marinus the Dalmation) fled the island of Arbe to escape the anti-Christian Roman Emperor Diocletian. Marinus hid on the peak of Mount Titano and founded a small community of people following their Christian beliefs.
It's certain that the area had been inhabited since prehistoric times, although evidence of existence on Mount Titano dates back only to the Middle Ages.
In memory of the above mentioned stone cutter, the land was renamed "Land of San Marino," then called the "Community of San Marino," and was finally changed to its present-day name, "Republic of San Marino."
The San Marino maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of San Marino
Capital City San Marino
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 43° 46'N, 12° 25'E
Languages Italian
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic
Population 25,350
Land Area 61 sq km (24 sq miles)
Landforms Completely surrounded by Italy, the country is in the Appennines Mountains, with most of it on the slopes of Mt. Titano.
Land Divisions 9 municipalities, including: Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Chiesanuova, Domagnano, Faetano, Fiorentino, Monte Giardino, San Marino, and Serravalle
Country Details
On July 1, 2006, the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, as well as other many additional countries around the world now recognize both Montenegro and Serbia as separate nations. We are in the process of creating separate maps and individual pages for both countries, and hope to have them on line in the very near future.
Serbia's capital is Belgrade, and Montenegro's is now Podgorica. Kosovo, a region of Serbia, is administrated by NATO and the United Nations.
In 1999, the world watched in horror as the Serbs began a massive expulsion of ethnic Albanians living in Kosovo. That action provoked an international response that included the bombing of Serbia, and the positioning of NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo.
Within months, Serbia's former leader (Slobodan Milosevic) was arrested; awaiting trial in The Hague, Netherlands for crimes against humanity, he died.
The Serbia and Montenegro map pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Status of Kosovo here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Name Serbia & Montenegro (formerly Yugoslavia)
Population 10,655,000 (with approximately 600,000 living in Montenegro)
Capital Cities Belgrade (Serbia), Podgorica (Montenegro)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 44° 00'N, 21° 00'E
Languages Serbian, Albanian
Official Currency Serbia (Dinar), Montenegro (Euro)
Religions Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic, others
Land Area 102,173 sq km (39,449 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged mountains, hills and valleys of the Dinaric Alps slice through the country, west of the Morava River. The highest point, Daravica, rises to 8,712 ft. (2,656m).
The toothy-edge Balkan Mountains form its natural borders with Bulgaria and Romania.
A fertile river floodplain (the Pannonian) stretches from Belgrade north to the borders with Croatia, Hungary and Romania.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Drina, lim, Morava, Sava and Tara. Lake Skadar is shared with Albania.
Land Divisions 2 republics and 2 autonomous provinces (Kosovo and Vojvodina)
Country Details
For centuries the Slovakian people were subjected to domination by stronger political entities, including the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Habsburg Empire.
Long a part of Czechoslovakia, Slovakia became and independent nation on January 1, 1993.
Farming, forestry, mining and manufacturing are important industries, as well as a flourishing tourism business.
The country is two-thirds mountainous, and ski resorts in the Ore and Carpathian Mountains are growing in popularity.
The Slovakia maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Slovak Republic
Population 5,381,000
Capital City Bratislava (428,000)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 48° 40'N, 19° 30'E
Languages Slovak (official), others
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 49,036 sq km (18,933 sq miles)
Landforms The rugged Ore Mountains dominate the central region, while the Carpathian Mountains cover its northern borders with the Czech Republic and Poland.
The tallest peaks are in the Tatra Mountains. The highest point is Gerlach Peak, rising to 8,743 ft. (2,665m)
The mountains slope into the fertile lowlands of the Danube River plain.
Significant rivers include the Danube, Morava, Hron, Hornad and Vah.
Land Divisions 8 regions, including: Banskobystricky, Bratislavsky, Kosicky, Nitriansky, Presovsky, Trenciansky, Trnavsky and Zilinsky
Country Details
Slovenia is one of the youngest European countries, becoming an independent state in 1991, after the collapse of the Yugoslav federation.
Soon after it became the 176th member of the United Nations and an associate member of the European Union.
Today, agricultural industries are a significant economic factor, and its large freight port in Koper (on the Adriatic Sea) is an important gateway into Central Europe.
The tragic civil war with Serbia seriously affected its thriving tourism industry, and yet, signs of recovery are on the horizon.
The Slovenia maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Slovenia
Capital City Ljubljana
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 46° 00'N, 15° 00'E
Languages Slovenian (official), others
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 1,977,000
Land Area 20,250 sq km (7,820 sq miles)
Landforms Over 40% of the land is mountainous as the Alps extend across northern Slovenia. The Julian and Savinja ranges run along its borders with Austria and Italy. Central and south, the balance of land is mixture of high hills and valleys, covered by green forests. Major rivers include the Drava and Sava.
Land Divisions 136 municipalities, 11 urban municipalities
Details
The Balearic Islands, an autonomous division of Spain, are one of the most popular holiday destinations in all of Europe. The well-known island of Mallorca is the largest in the group.
There is little history on the earliest inhabitants of the islands, though many legends exist. In modern times, these stunning rocks in the Mediterranean Sea are tourism magnets.
Excellent climate, sandy beaches and natural beauty attracts visitors to these islands from around the world. In fact, in 2007 nearly 24 million people passed through Palma's Son Sant Joan airport, with an additional 2 million coming by sea
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Balearic Islands,
a territory of Spain since 1349
Capital City Palma de Mallorca
Major Towns here
Flag here
Languages Spanish (official) and Catalan
Latitude/Longitude 39° 34'N, 2° 39'E
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic, others
Population 1,071,221 (2008)
Land Area 5014 sq km (1935 sq miles)
Details
Once known to the ancient Romans as the Fortunate Islands, the Canary Islands were named after the large dogs (Canes) found living on the islands.
Located off the northwestern coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are one of the most popular tourist destination on the planet, especially with Europeans.
The Canary Island's archipelago includes (7) major islands, all remnants of very steep, extinct volcanoes. Weather conditions here are considered perfect, and the beaches - some of the best on the planet.
The Canary Islands' maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Official Name Canary Islands,
an autonomous region of Spain
Major Cities Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Flag here
Languages Spanish (official), English, German
Latitude/Longitude 28° 06'N, 15° 24'W
Official Currency the Euro, details here
Religions Roman Catholic, others
Population 1.6 million
Land Area 7,770 sq km (3,000 sq miles)
Landforms The islands are the remaining cones of long-extinct volcanoes, some very steep. The highest point (the highest point in all of Spain's territories) is the Pico de Teide Mountain, located on Tenerife. It's 12,195 ft., (3,718m) tall
Country Details
The beautiful, mountainous country of Switzerland is landlocked in south-central Europe, and remains one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet.
It's famed for banking institutions, watch makers, cheeses and chocolates, mountain glaciers and lakes, and of course, fabulous skiing in the Alps.
Politically, its long-standing neutrality is highly respected by the major nations of the world, and in fact, Switzerland played no part in World War I and II.
The Switzerland maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Swiss Confederation
Capital City Bern
Flag here
Languages German, French, Italian, Romansch
Latitude/Longitude 47° 00'N, 8° 00'E
Official Currency Swiss Franc
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 7,318,000
Land Area 39,770 sq km (15,355 sq miles)
Landforms Mountains cover 60% of the land area with ranges of the Alps in the south and the Jura Mountains in the north. Between the mountains there's a hilly, central plateau.
Land Divisions 26 cantons, including: Aargau, Appenzell Ausser-Rhoden, Appenzell Inner-Rhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Bern, Fribourg, Geneve, Glarus, Graubunden, Jura, Luzern, Neuchatel, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Sankt Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Thurgau, Ticino, Uri, Valais, Vaud, Zug, Zurich
Country Details
Turkey is geographically, politically and officially part of two continents - Europe and Asia. The smaller northwestern portion (Thrace) is part of Europe, while the larger portion (Anatolia) is part of Asia.
Founded in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey is home to spectacular mountains, superb beaches and antiquities of all descriptions.
This fascinating country is a very popular tourist destination and one of the most intriguing countries on the planet.
The Turkey maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Turkey
Population 73,197,000
Capital City Ankara (3.4 million)
Population (largest Cities) Istanbul 9.4 million, Ankara 3.4 million, Izmir 2.4 million, Bursa 1.2 million, Adana 1.2 million
Flag here
Languages Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic, others
Official Currency Turkish Lira
Currency Converter here
Religions Muslim, others
Land Area 770,630 sq km (297,154 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 39° 00'N, 35° 00'E
Landforms The European side is mostly rolling hills, while across the Bosphorus Strait into central Turkey, there are wide plains, all surrounded by (and mixed with) high, rugged mountains, including the Taurus, Koroglu and Pontic ranges. Many peaks exceed 10,000 feet, with the highest point being Mt. Ararat at 16,945 ft. (5,165m).
Along the Mediterranean coast the land is lower and very fertile. The Tigras, Kizilirmak, Sakarya and Euphrates are major rivers, and Lake Van the largest lake.
Land Divisions 81 provinces
Country Details
Ukraine gained its independence in 1991, with the breakup of the former Soviet Union.
All of Russia's former republics then formed the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), with headquarters in Minsk, Belarus.
Rich in natural resources, Ukraine was once called the "Breadbasket of Europe," because of its fertile soil and beneficial climate conditions.
Sadly, the tragic 1986 Chornobyl nuclear accident (just north of Kiev) still lingers, and dangerous land contamination and radioactivity concerns are viable problems.
The Ukraine maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Ukraine
Capital City Kyiv (Kiev)
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 49° 00'N, 32° 00'E
Languages Ukrainian, Russian, others
Official Currency Hryvna
Religions Ukrainian Orthodox, others
Population 49,506,000
Land Area 603,700 sq km (223,090 sq miles)
Landforms Mountainous areas southwest (the Carpathians), and south (the Crimean chain). Most of the land consists of fertile plains (steppes) and plateaus. Dnipro River and its many tributaries disect the country.
Land Divisions 24 oblasti, 2 municipalities and 1 autonomous republic
Description
Situated just off the coast of France on the edge of the English Channel, the beautiful Channel Islands, a British Crown dependency since 1066, are fiercely independent and justifiably proud of their history and traditions.
They're in fact, famous for stoic resistance during the German occupation in World War II, with remnants of that war still dotting the landscape.
This popular tourist destination is also an attractive offshore tax haven (for many companies), and as a result, the islands have a thriving financial industry. In addition, they're known worldwide for locally grown flowers and for their prized purebred Guernsey cows.
The local language and pubs may be English, but the islands were once a part of Normandy, so many of the place names and roads, as well as the food are decidedly French.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Channel Islands
Main Towns St. Helier, St. Peter Port and St. Anne
Flags of the islands here
Climate When compared to the mainland of Britain, the islands are temperate in nature, with mild, damp and cloudy winters, and warm, dry, sunnier summers.
Electricity 240V, 50Hz
Latitude/Longitude 49° 02'N, 2.2° W
Languages English
Official Currency Pound Sterling
Religions Anglican, Catholic, others
Population 162,000
Land Area 311 sq km (120 sq miles)
Time and Date in St. Helier
Details
Gibraltar, a self-governing British colony, is a small, narrow peninsula, located at the southern edge of Spain. It overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, and the northern coastal areas of Africa.
Over the centuries, Gibraltar's unique position at the western entrance of the Mediterranean Sea, made it the focus of territorial power struggles.
It was finally claimed by the British in 1713, and today it's an important air base and international port. In addition, tourists by the thousands travel here to tour the attractions, "The Rock," and to enjoy the wonderful weather.
The Gibraltar maps and information pages are currently being revised, but will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Gibraltar: a British Crown colony, claimed in 1713
Capital Gibraltar
Flag here
Languages English (official), Spanish, others
Latitude/Longitude 36° 11'N, 5° 22'W
Official Currency Gibraltar Pound
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Population 29,500 (est.)
Land Area 6.5 sq km (2.5 sq miles)
Landforms A spectacular rock monolith dominates the landscape. It looks similar to an arrowhead (depending on your veiw). It's called "The Rock," and it stands at 1,394 ft, (425m). The surrounding land is close to sea level with a few sandy beaches, There are no rivers.
Land Divisions None
Country Details
The Vatican, the worldwide headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, is bordered by a wall, and completely surrounded by the city of Rome, Italy.
It's the smallest state in the world, and includes: Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Palace (the Pope's formal residence), the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, and dozens of administrative buildings and historic monuments.
The Vatican maps and information pages are currently being revised, and will be posted soon.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name State of the Vatican City (Holy See)
Capital City not applicable
Major Cities not applicable
Bordering Countries Italy
Flag here
Latitude/Longitude 41° 54'N, 12° 27'E
Languages Italian, Latin, others
Official Currency: the Euro, details here
Religions Catholic
Population 882
Land Area .44 sq km (.17 sq miles)
Landforms It all sits on a low hill
Land Divisions none
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