The Republic of Austria is a middle sized central European country, bordering Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary and Lichtenstein. The land now known as Austria has been settled since prehistoric times. Most of Austria (south of the Danube) formed a province in the Roman Empire. During the following centuries Austria was occupied by Bavarians and Slavs. During the Middle Ages Austria in combination with Hungary became a European power, which lasted until the First World War. Austria was then briefly independent before being annexed by Germany in 1938. The present Republic of Austria gained independence in 1955. Austria is member of the European Union since 1995.

Inhabitants: 8.200.000
Area: 84.000 km2
Capital: Vienna (1.600.000 inhabitants)
Languages: German (Hungarian, Slovenian, Romanian)
Religion: Roman Catholic 78%, Protestant 5%, other 17%
GBD per capita: $37.000
Government: Federal republic
Climate: Cool temperate climate zone in the lowlands and alpine climate in the highlands.