Characteristics of austria according to plan. Abstract economic and geographical position of austria
Economic and geographical location
Austrian Republic - Austria is a state located in the center of Europe. The territory of the country is surrounded by land on all sides. The state borders on: the Czech Republic (in the north); with Slovakia (in the north-east); with Hungary (in the east); with Italy and Slovenia (in the south); with Switzerland and Liechtenstein (in the west) and with Germany (in the north-west).
Austria is a union state. It includes:
- Lower and Upper Austria,
- Styria,
- Burgerland,
- Carinthia,
- Vorarlberg,
- Tyrol,
- Vein,
- Salzburg.
The territory of Austria is elongated in the form of a wedge. The total area of the territory is 83.8 thousand square meters. km.
The country's main marinas are located near Vienna and in Linz. Largest cities: Vienna, Linz, Graz, Salzburg.
The geographical location favors the development of economic ties with neighboring states.
Austria is the crossroads of a number of trans-European traffic flows.
Natural conditions
The natural features of Austria are largely predetermined by the presence on the territory of the country mountain system Eastern Alps. Mountain ranges occupy up to 70% of the entire territory of the country, most of which are represented by the Eastern Alps. The Eastern Alps are subdivided into: the Salzburg Alps and the North Tyrol Alps (in the north) and the Karnik and Zillertal Alps (in the south). High Taeurn is the most powerful mountain range in the country. Mount Grossglockner is the highest point in the country (3797 m).
Pasterets is the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps (over 10 km long).
The Stubai, Ötztal and Zillertal Alps represent a ridge granite-gneiss zone of the mountains. Alpine landforms are clearly expressed here - steep-walled valleys and sharp ridges. To the south and north of the ridge zone stretch the Limestone Alps, in the northern regions turning into the Pre-Alps, which descend to the Danube. The Eisriesenwelt ice cave is located in the Tennengebirge mountains. The Prealps are rolling low mountains overgrown with forest.
On the left side of the Danube is a part of the old Bohemian massif - the southern spurs of the Shumava, up to 500 m high (in some places the height reaches 1000 m).
1/5 of the entire area of the country is occupied by flat territories and hilly lowlands: the Danube part of Austria, part of the Central Danube plain. Significant areas of fertile land are located here.
The climate is temperate. In the western parts of the country, the influence of the Atlantic can be traced. In the eastern regions and in the mountains, the climate is more continental.
The climatic conditions of the plains are warm and humid. average temperature July - + 20ºC. Winter is mild, the average January temperature is + 1-5ºC. The average annual precipitation is 700-900 mm.
With a rise for every 100m, the average temperature drops by 0.5-0.6 ° C.
Snow occurs at an altitude of 2500-2800 m. Summers in the mountains are windy, damp, cold, wet snow often falls. In winter, huge layers of snow accumulate on the slopes of the mountains, which often form avalanches.
Remark 1
A characteristic feature of the mountainous regions of the country is the abundance of clean fresh water, which accumulates during the main part of the year in the form of glaciers and snows, and in summer flows down to the Danube and forms lake basins.
Natural resources
Water resources... The largest river in the country is the Danube. The most full-flowing river occurs in summer period(due to the melting of snow and ice in mountainous areas). The Danube tributaries - Salzach, Inn, Drava, Ends - have a large hydropower potential. Partially these rivers are used for timber rafting. In the northern foothills of the Alps and in the Klagenfurt Basin (in the south) there are many deep lakes of glacial origin. The largest lake - Constance - belongs to Austria in part. The largest waterfalls in the world include the Krimml Falls. Mineral springs - Bad Ischl, Baden.
Forest resources... Forests occupy almost 2/3 of the country's territory. Most of all forests are spread in the mountains. Mountain forests are the national treasure of Austria.
Minerals... The main minerals of the country are: oil and natural gas (Vienna Basin), brown coal (Upper Austria, Styria), magnesite (Faich, Styrian Alps). On the territory there are deposits of iron ore (Eisenertz region, Mount Erzberg; Carinthia, Hüttenberg), lead-zinc ores (Klagenfurt, Bleiberg, etc.), copper ores (Tyrol, Mitterberg). Salt (Salzkamergut), marble, graphite, feldspar, granite, limestone, and kaolin are mined in the country.
Recreational resources... The Austrian Alps are a popular destination for skiers. The most visited resorts of the provinces: Tyrol, Salzburg, Carinthia. Tourists visit Styria and Forlarlberg. Resorts where you can combine relaxation and wellness (on thermal springs): Bad Hofgastein, Bad Gastein in the Gastein ral region. Comfortable temperatures, clean air, beautiful landscapes attract mountain tourists and other vacationers.
Flora and fauna
The foothills and lower areas of the mountain slopes are covered with broad-leaved trees - beech, oak, hornbeam forests. Above, there are mixed beech-spruce and coniferous forests, mainly fir. Above 1200 m, there are larch, spruce, cedar. The zone of subalpine meadows - matty - is located above the forest belt and is distinguished by an abundance of high-grass representatives, and after - low-grass ones - alpine meadows - almas. In the belt of eternal snow and ice, you can find a stunted plant - a silvery edelweiss.
The vegetation cover of the flat-hilly territories of the country is almost completely changed under the influence of the anthropogenic factor. Most of the land is plowed up, there are small oak and beech groves.
The fauna of Austria is Central European. In high-mountainous regions it is typically alpine. In protected areas in forest mountain ranges inhabited by: red deer, roe deer, elk, brown bear, mountain sheep, chamois, mountain goats, alpine marmot, mountain eagle, black grouse, capercaillie, partridge.
On the plains, there are hares, foxes, and rodents. In the steppe region near Lake Neusiedler See, the purple heron is found.
Geographical position
Austrian republic is a continental state located in the southern part of Central Europe... This state was formed after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy at the end of the First World War.
Austria in the north Borders with Germany and Czech Republic, in the West- with Switzerland and Liechtenstein, on South pass the borders with Italy and Slovenia, in the east the country borders on Slovakia and Hungary... The length of Austria's state borders with these countries is 2.706 km, of which 816 km with Germany, 466 km with the Czech Republic, 107 km with Slovakia, 354 km with Hungary, 330 km with Slovenia, 430 km with Italy, 166 km with Switzerland and 35 km with Liechtenstein. Total area of the country is 83.858 sq. Km
Administratively, the state consists of 9 federal states: Burgenland, Carinthia, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Salzburg, Styria, Tyrol, Vorarlberg and Vienna city(on the basis of land rights).
Capital of Austria is the city Vein... The state is located in mountainous regions. Most of the country's territory is occupied Eastern Alps, which are lower and wider than Western ones. In addition, these mountains are distinguished by the presence of more forests and meadows, but there are fewer glaciers. The border between them runs along the western border of the state - along the valley of the upper Rhine. In the north, these mountains are bordered by Northern Alpine foothills, and in the east - with Eastern Alpine foothills. This foothill includes Viennese and Styrian basins... Further in the east, it turns into Hungarian lowlands.
The Eastern Alps have fewer glaciers, more forests and meadows than the Western ones. Plains account for only 7% of the country's territory.
The largest and only navigable river Austria is Danube... Its length in Austria is about 350 km. It flows from Passau on the border with Germany to the suburbs of Bratislava in Slovakia. The main tributary of the Danube in Austria it is considered Inn.
There are a large number of lakes on the territory of the country, there are thermal springs with warm water. Most of them are in the area Salzkammergut in Upper Austria, as well as in Styria and Salburg.
Highest mountain peak country - Grossglockner in the Hohe Tauern, the height of which is 3797 m... There are also many other high peaks. The largest glacier Eastern Alps bears the name Pasierce, its length exceeds 10 km.
The most famous arrays The Central Alps are: Reticon, Ötztal, Zillertal, Kitzbühel Alps, Hohe Tauern and Semmering.
Most of the country's territory is located in the mountains, for this reason the climate in Austria is quite diverse. In the West countries prevail humid climate, in the south and east Austria continental climate. The climate is influenced by Atlantic, continental and Mediterranean influences. In the northern and western regions countries prevail soft and wet weather with Atlantic Ocean. Average annual temperatures here make up from 7 to 9 degrees C. During the winter months the temperature can drop to - 1-7 degrees. In the mountains the climate is cooler. Summer here usually 18-24 degrees.
Winter soft in Austria, no frost. average temperature during this period is about 0 degrees. Summer warm but not roast. average temperature summer air is 22 ° C.
In the eastern regions the country is dominated by continental influences. There is less rainfall here, but in the summer there are heavy showers... The annual rainfall in Austria exceeds 760 mm. The only exceptions are: the Vienna Basin, some areas of Burgenland and intermountain valleys. Snow stays on the plains for one to six months a year. In the valleys in winter are very frequent fogs.
Visas, entry regulations, customs regulations
For entry to the territory of Austria for Russian citizens requiredinternational passport and the current Schengen visa... In addition, you also need arrange health insurance policy. At customsmay ask present return tickets or confirmation of hotel reservation or voucher from a travel company.
When entering the territory of Austria by private carnecessary also have with you international driving license and technical passport... In addition, it is necessary arrange international compulsory insurance policy civil liability of vehicle owners.
Apply for a visa can be at the consular section of the Austrian embassy in Moscow. The visa application process takes 7 days.
In Austria no restrictions for the import and export of foreign and local currency. Without special permission cannot be imported to the country items that have historical or artistic value. When entering Austria from non-EU countries, need to declare amounts over 10 thousand euros.
Persons over 17 years old they have a right import 200 pieces into the territory of Austria. cigarettes or 500 cigars or 250 g of tobacco. Can be imported 2.25 liters of wine or 3 liters of beer and additionally 1 liter of other alcoholic beverages. In addition, other goods may be imported for an amount not exceeding US $ 200 per person. If a tourist arrives by train or car, then import allowed goods totaling $ 80.
Gold items and jewelry with a total weight of over 500 g need to declare.
From May 1, 2009 to the territory of the EU countries cannot be imported foods containing meat or milk. This prohibition does not apply for baby food and special preparations.
Without a permit to Austria cannot be imported drugs and narcotic drugs, medications, weapons, ammunition, pornographic materials.
All plants, animals and plant products must be presented quarantine officials. On pets it is necessary arrange vaccination certificate and medical certificate. A medical certificate must be issued not earlier than 10 days until departure.
Population, political status
Population of Austria is 8188 thousand people.
The largest cities countries are: Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg and Innsbruck... These cities are home to about 30% of the country's population.
Capital Vein represents economic and Cultural Center country... The city is spread out on both banks of the Danube.
State language is an Austrian.Colloquial represents Austrian German.
More than 98% of the population make up austrians... Austria also has six recognized national minorities - Croats, Slovenes, Czechs, Slovaks, Hungarians, Gypsies(total approx. 300 thousand people). Slovenes, Croats and Hungarians live in selected areas Styria, Carinthia and Burgenland. In Vienna also live Czechs and Jews.
Number of foreigners in Austria is about 8.8%. 45% of them are immigrants from the former Yugoslavia... The share of the urban population is 65%.
Austria is parliamentary federal republic... The state gained independence on May 15, 1955.
Head of State and Executive Branch - the president... He is elected by direct popular vote for a 6-year term. Head of government is an chancellor... Austria is divided into 9 federal states. The population of each of the lands chooses its own parliament (Landtag). Parliament elects the head of the land government... The lands are divided into districts. In villages and small towns the population chooses municipal councilors, which electburgomasters.
Legislature in the country represents bicameral parliament - Federal Assembly. Federal states presents Federal Council (Bundesrat). Population of the country presents national council (nationalrat).
At the head of the federal government costs federal chancellor... The government exercises executive and administrative functions.
What to see
The largest cities Austria are: Vienna, Salzburg and Graz... It is here that a large number of tourists come every year. But not only big, but also small cities are interesting, for example, Fürstenfeld or Feldbach... They also have interesting sights.
Of course, most of the tourists come to the capital of Austria - Vienna. It is a very beautiful traditional European city with a unique charm. Vienna has many attractions. City symbol considered to be gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral... Cathedral surrounded famous streetRingstrasse which is shaped like a horseshoe. On this street are the most fashionable and sophisticated restaurants, shops and a cafe... Both ends of the street are connected by an embankment.
In Vienna there are more than 80 museums... Many museums in Austria are dedicated to famous musicians. So, in Salzburg there is two houses-museums of Mozart. In Mürzzuschlag you can visit Brahms house. In Vienna there are many memorials dedicated to musicians. Among them are four Beethoven house-museums.
Austria is interesting for a large number of different architectural monuments. There are cathedrals, palaces, castles and monasteries here. The most important artistic treasures are kept in Vienna's museums. Of them the main ones are: Schönbrunn, Albertina Gallery and Museum of art history... Vienna is also famous for its parks.
Archaeological Park Karnuntum is one of the most interesting sights in Austria. He is in between Vienna and Bratislava... On south coast Danube, at the intersection of ancient trade routes used to be capital of the Roman province of Upper Pannonia- town Carnuntum... In the park, tourists have an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the history of Carnuntum.
Prater- this is Vienna's most famous park... It is located northeast of the center of the capital... You can get to this park via the Danube Canal, along the Praterstrasse. In 1766, Emperor Joseph II opened these park estates of the imperial family to everyone. The Prater is known for its magnificent boulevard, which is over 4 km long. In addition, this park has excellent opportunities for practicing various sports... There is golf course, stadium, racetrack and swimming pool. For fun in the park there is planetarium and fair area Würstelprater... Throughout the park runs miniature railway. Main stop is an ferris wheel Riesenrad, whose height is 60 meters. This wheel was built in 1897 for the Vienna World's Fair. The Ferris wheel makes a full revolution in 20 minutes.
Park "Vienna Woods" located near Vienna, in the foothills of the Eastern Alps... The park is a whole forest area. It houses various hotels and thermal springs... On one side of the park lies the picturesque Danube Valley, and on the other side is the famous district of Baden. A large number of Austrians and foreigners come here on vacation.
Old park Augarten famous for its many musical performances and symphony concerts.
You can also have a great rest in the urban natural nature reserve Lobau.
Schönbrunn represents summer residence of the Habsburgs... This lovely ensemble includes park area and Castle... Here you can admire not only architecture, but also nature. In Schönbrunn, tourists can also visit carriage show... French park decorated mythological sculptures... At the foot of the hill is located fountain of neptune... There is a summer palace theater, and several museums and zoo.
Ancient St. Stephen's Cathedral built in honor of the patron saint of Vienna. This is a grandiose structure that attracts many tourists. The cathedral is over 800 years old. He survived despite wars and disasters. Under the cathedral are ancient catacombs, in which representatives of the Habsburg dynasty were buried. The interior of the cathedral also deserves special attention. Here you can see ancient stone statues and fantastically diverse carving.
Into the spire of the cathedral done turkish cannonball... This core came here during the Turkish siege of the city in the 16th century. Above, the powerful masonry of the supports is noticeable. There are niches, arches and turrets here. The colored roof tiles are lined with zigzag patterns. In the cathedral itself you can enjoy the solemn sounds of the organ... Opposite the cathedral is Stephansplatz square... There is a postmodern glass in the square. Haas commercial center building... On the walls of the Stephansdom you can see measures of length, size and weight. These measures were used in the Middle Ages to check goods upon purchase.
Belvedere Palace consists of 2 magnificent Rococo mansions. They were built at the beginning of the 18th century. The buildings are located opposite each other on a hillside above Vienna. These buildings offer a wonderful view of the capital. Belvedere Palace was built by Evgeny Savoysky... This illustrious general freed Vienna from the expansion of the Ottoman Empire. The palace is considered the most beautiful palace complex in the Austrian capital.
The museums of the two palaces house some of the most famous art galleries in Vienna... Here tourists can admire Austrian paintings from different periods. Museum expositions include an excellent a collection of paintings by Klimt, the famous works of Schiele and Kokoschka, Renoir and Monet... In the lower palace, many of the rooms are still preserved in their original appearance. Exhibited here works in the Baroque style of the Middle Ages.
Vienna State Opera famous all over the world. Her repertoire includes about a hundred operas, operettas and ballets. Shows take place here every day season lasts from September to June... The Opera House was opened at the beginning of the 18th century. During the war in 1945, the building was destroyed, and in 1955 it was reconstructed. The Opera building has a magnificent atmosphere. It's very difficult to get to the show here... It is especially difficult to buy tickets for seating in the hall. But tickets for "standing" seats can be purchased for enough affordable price... Only now you will have to stand in line for them. The State Opera cooperates closely with Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra... Their joint New Year's concert is especially famous, tickets for which must be bought a year in advance. The waiting list for subscription concerts stretches for 13 years.
Augustine Church of the 14th century situated in the Hofburg palace complex... The parishioners of this church were the imperial court. At the end of the 18th century, the church returned to its former Gothic appearance. Chapel of St. George was built in 1337. It is located at the right nave. Buried in the church Maria Christina, Darling daughter of Maria Teresa... Her grave is located in the central nave, not far from the back entrance to the church. But the body of Maria Christina is in the Imperial Crypt. The grave is masterpiece by the Italian architect Canova... In a small room in the chapel of Loreto urns were installed in which the hearts of representatives are kept imperial family of Habsburgs... You can see them through the window in iron door... The Chapel of St. George and the Chapel of Loreto can only be visited by tourists by pre-booked tour.
In addition, the church is also interesting because in 1736 there Maria Teresa married François de Lorrain... The Augustine Church also married other royal couples. In 1770 they got married here Marie antoinette and Louis XVI, in 1810 - Maria Louise and Napoleon, in 1854 - Franz Joseph and Elizabeth of Bavaria... The best time to visit this church is at 11 am. During this time, the choir, soloists and orchestra perform a high mass.
Hofburg Imperial Palace located in the center of the Austrian capital. At various times, this palace was the residence of many influential people, including representatives dynasty of Habsburg... Is here today official residence the president of the country.
Hofburg represents complex of imperial buildings... The first of these buildings was built in 1279. The oldest part of the residence is Swiss yard... It got its name in honor of the Swiss Guard, which was responsible for protecting the Kaiser. The architectural styles of the Hofburg are somewhat different. This is due to the fact that each new emperor strove to bring something of his own to the appearance of the palace. The Hofburg suffered three major sieges and a great fire. It has over 2,600 rooms, but only about 20 are open to the public.
Of great interest to tourists are State Halls and museums... They contain rich collections from the times of the Habsburg dynasty. Here you can also visit the famous Spanish Riding School, National Library... V Imperial chapel every Sunday since 1498 the famous boys' choir has performed.
The most ancient church Veins is an Church of St. Ruprecht (Ruprechts Kirche). It is believed that its construction began as early as 740. This church was founded by the Archbishop of Salzburg. Before that, this place was located “ House for Prayer and Reflection”. The nave and the lower part of the tower were built in the 11th century. Some parts of the church building can most likely be attributed to an even earlier period.
Fucking represents old town... It is located near Salzburg. The city got its name in the middle of the 6th century in honor of its founder Foko. This small settlement is the most popular among tourists among all towns in the southeastern region of the country. This is due to the fact that on English language the name of the city is spelled "Fucking". Numerous tourists all the time try to take a road sign with them as a souvenir. with such funny name cities. This is hurting the budget of this small town. The cost of one such plate is several hundred dollars. Residents and city authorities are not happy about their popularity. In 2004, a vote was even held to change the name of the city, but it was decided to leave the old one. The town authorities are constantly trying to strengthen the structure with the sign.
Small federal province Burgenland located in the very east of Austria, on the border with Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia. The capital of Burgenland is an Eisenstadt... Here tourists can see the square Esterhazy Platz... Also interesting Esterhazy Palace with 4 baroque wings, Haydn's hall and magnificent state rooms. Attractions of the town are also: park on Hydngasse, Haydn House Museum, Franciscan Church(1625) with the crypt of the Esterhazy family, city hall ... Interesting Kalvarinbergkirche church and Haydn's mausoleum Near the Bergkirche church.
Austria is home to Europe's only large steppe lake Neuwidlersee - Seewinkel... On all sides, this lake is surrounded by thickets of reeds, salt ponds and swamps. The lake is 33.5 km long, 12 km wide, and only 1.8 m deep. The lake is home to a large number of animals and rare birds. Residents of Austria very often come here on vacation. A chain of ancient castles and monasteries stretches to the southwest of the shores of the lake. Here you can see baroque palace in Halbturn, built in 1711. Of interest is the former Servite monastery 1651, located in Loretto as well ruinthe largest fortress of Burgenland in Landsee... In the vicinity of the lake there is also fortress Burg Schlaining, built in 1272, medieval fortress(XV - XVII centuries) and Franciscan monastery 1648 located in Güssing.
Large Austrian city Graz represents the state capital of Styria... The city is spread out on the banks of the Mur River in a fertile Graz Basin... It is an important industrial, commercial and educational center of the country.
Town Linz located on the Danube River. He is administrative center states of Upper Austria... It is an industrial center and a port. This city is located the oldest functioning church in Austria- St. Martin's Church was built during the time of the Romans.
Salzburg is one of the most beautiful and famous cities in Austria. Moreover, it is second largest city in the country... He settled down on the Salzach river at the foot of the Alps. Salzburg became famous, first of all, as birthplace of the famous Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart... There are a large number of monuments and museums dedicated to the great composer. In the town music and theater festivals are held annually... The architecture of Salzburg is dominated by buildings from the Baroque era. There are a lot of squares here. Not far from the city is located large deposit of rock salt. It was this circumstance that once allowed the city to become a major retail outlet in Europe.
Town Innsbruck lies on the Inn River, high in the Tyrolean Alps. He is world famous sports center.
St. Pölten is an one of the oldest cities in Austria.
Tourists are attracted here City Hall building, Schallaburg Palace. It is also interesting to visit here Historical Museum Lower Austria and Modern Art Museum.
Carinthia represents the beautiful lakeside land of Austria. This place is often called " Austrian Riviera". About 2000 hours a year are sunny in Carinthia. Here is located a huge number of lakes, there are warm mineral springs ... All resorts in this area are distinguished by excellent quality of service. A large number of Austrians and foreigners come here every year to have a great rest in comfort and receive medical treatment.
The nature of Carinthia is amazingly picturesque. Here are located the most famous lakes Austria: Wörther See, Ossiacher See, Millstater See and Weissensee... Here you can also see small Afritzer See, Faaker See with unique landscapes, Feld See and Koychacher See. Klopeiner See is an the most warm lake Austria... Lakes Pressegger See and Langsee are distinguished by the amazing purity of the water. Thanks to thermal springs, the water in these lakes is warm. We can say that each lake in this region has its own unique flavor.
In various provinces of Austria, tourists can admire the magnificent castles that have a long history. Most famous in this regard province of Styria... Here is the so-called " Road of Castles". More than 10 castles are located along the border with Hungary. Once these castles belonged to the feudal lords of Styria and Burgenland. Of the most popular can be distinguished: Kornberg, Herberstein, Obermaierhofen and Pellau... Some of these castles belong today to the descendants of old family families. But, despite this, castles and family estates are open to tourists.
Austria is famous all over the world for its magnificent ski resorts located in the Alps... Many fans of active winter recreation come here.
Ischgl counts one of the most popular resorts in the country... Its territory is equipped with the most modern lifts. For the convenience of tourists, there is even Internet cafe... The hotels in this resort offer high quality service. The resort regularly hosts concerts of various rock and pop musicians and singers... The only disadvantage of this resort is the absence of difficult slopes. Ischgl is very popular with amateurs go snowboarding... Resort belongs to the Silverett region... This region is traditionally one of the four best European snowboarding areas.
Innsbruck is an Austrian winter sports center... This city is located in the heart of the Eastern Alps. Innsbruck became twice the capital of the Winter Olympics... It combines the comfort of a high-end ski resort with the sophistication of one of the most exciting cities in the world. Around the city is located 7 of the most popular ski areas and snowboarding. Here is located Stubai glacier... The ski resorts of this city meet the highest European requirements. Everything you need for classes is provided here alpine skiing and winter recreation. Numerous tourists visit Innsbruck not only for skiing. It is quite interesting as a city. Here you can admire the beautiful architecture of cathedrals and other buildings... The city has a large number of various museums, cafes, restaurants... In addition, Innsbruck also provides great shopping opportunities.
Mayrhofen represents one of the most popular alpine ski resorts... Here you can see amazing mountain landscapes... The nature of the Tyrolean Alps is simply mesmerizing. The resort attracts numerous tourists with a wide selection of trails that vary in difficulty. These trails will appeal to even the most discerning visitors. This ski resort is famous all over the world... Mayrhofen is especially popular due to its proximity to Tuxer glacier, the height of which is 3250 meters. This peak is distinguished by the fact that snow lies here even in summer. Mayrhofen is dominated by red and blue tracks. The system of chairlifts and drag lifts is very well developed here.
Sant Anton(St. Anton am Arlberg) is an one of the most popular and prestigious resorts in Austria... This largest ski resort is located in the Ahlberg district... Representatives of the world elite come to this resort every year. The skiing region in Arlberg is located on an area of more than 50 sq. Km. The height difference here reaches 1500 meters. The highest peak in the region is an Valluga, the height of which is 2811 meters. The resort offers its guests more than 260 kilometers of well-prepared trails. For especially trained skiers, there are 180 kilometers of slopes on unprepared pistes.
In Sant'Anton there are also ample opportunities for skiing on virgin snow... On this ski resort the atmosphere is traditional Tyrolean. Local hotels, restaurants, bars and a cafe are distinguished by their unique comfort. For lovers of discos, here are offered night clubs.
On the territory of modern Austria in the 2nd millennium BC livedaryan tribes... Then, in 300 BC this land was populated Gauls and Celts.
In the 1st century A.D. NS... southern part of the land captured by the Romans... The invaders began to introduce Christianity here. Barbarian tribes all the time they tried to capture the cities of the Romans, therefore, the cities were surrounded by fortifications.
Over time, they settled on this territory Germans, Hungarians and Slovenian peoples... They created Austrian nation... For many years, the duchy was headed by representatives of the Habsburg dynasty.The heyday of the duchy came in the 18th century... Then Austria took part in a long war with Prussia for Germany. She was defeated, after which a state appeared called Austro-hungary... It developed at a fairly fast pace and already by the end of the 19th century became the second largest European state.
But then the state was defeated in the First World War, which undermined its power. A in 1918 the revolution that took place led to the overthrow of the monarchy.
During the Second World War Austria occupied by fascist troops. After the war the territory of the country was occupied by 4 winning countries. Independence Austria was able to receive only in May 1955 of the year. October 25, 1955 years she found federal republic status.
Currently Austria is a member of the UN, European Union, European Economic Society and Commonwealth of the Schengen countries... It is a developed democratic state, which is considered one of the most significant cultural and economic centers in Europe.
Austria has very convenient location in the very center of Europe... Country has a fairly small domestic market... For this reason, the country's economy is very foreign trade plays an important role.
Main trading partners states are: Germany, Italy, America, Switzerland and France.
The main objects of export are: cars and equipment, trucks and spare parts for cars, steel, metal and products from it... The country is also actively exporting paper and cardboard, medical and pharmaceutical products, polymers and polymer products, food and beverages.
The export of services is also important for the country's economy, in which the first place is traditionally held by tourism.
The shops
Shopping very popular with guests of Austria, especially in large cities of the country. There is large department stores, various boutiques, antique and jewelry stores, bookstores and designer furniture stores and lamps.
There is no longer a uniform opening hours for stores in Austria. Usually shopping malls and shops work on weekdays from 09.00 to 18.30, a on Saturdays they are open from 09.00 to 18.00 hours. Thursdays and Fridays many shops are open up to 21 hours. At train stations, shops (groceries, flowers, tobacco products, books, etc.) open daily from 7 to 22:30.
Tobacco products sold only in specialized licensed kiosks or vending machines.
In Vienna situated one of the largest auction complexes in the world, a former pawnshop. Here you can buy unique books, postage stamps, jewelry, carpets, various art products... It also sells the most famous Viennese souvenirs:miniature horses of the Lipizzan breed for the slide in the living room.
Hammerer - national clothes and youth fashion. Goess -the best home furnishings store in Europe.
In Vienna the main shopping streets are: Favoritenstrasse(between the squares Sudtiroler and Reumannplatz),Landstrasse and Meidlinger Hauptstrasse, and MariahilferStrasse(Mariahilfer Strasse). You can get to Mariahilfer Strasse by Metro(lines U2, U3, U6). Most interesting for shopping is the section between Westbahnhof (Westbahnhof) and Ringstrasse (Ringstrasse).
Shopping centers Vienna:
On the southern outskirts of the city there is inexpensive shopping center SCS - Shopping City Süd.
Shopping City Süd - the second largest shopping center in Europe - over 300 stores!
Shopping center address: 2334 Vösendorf-Süd, Bürocenter SCS 4. Stock. Tel. 01/699 39 69-0, Fax: 01/699 48 66
Opening hours:
The shops: Mon-Wed 9.30-19.00, Thu 9.00-21.00, Fri 9.00-19.00, Sat 9.00-18.00;
The biggest Vienna bookstore is Morawa, 1, Wollzeile 11. It was recently renovated.
Art products and souvenirs tourists can buy at Augarten-Porzellanmanufaktur, Stock-im-Eisen-Platz 3 A-1010 Wien.
The most luxury shopping streets of Vienna- They are located in the golden triangle between
Outlets and discount centers:
40 km from Vienna there is a wonderful outlet (discount) center - Designer Outlet Parndorf where presented more than 150 famous brands with very big discounts. Information about the center in Russian
If the Austrian store has a sign “ Ausverkauf”, Then here prices will be slightly lower... The ubiquitous chain stores where along with products are presented essential items, personal hygiene, periodically there are various consumer goods: "Hofer", " Spar ", "LIDL", "Zielpunkt" and "Billa".
Foreign tourists have the opportunity return paid VAT... This can be done when buying in stores that have the sign “ Tax Free for tourist Austria Tax Free-Shopping"Or silver-black-blue mark" Europa-Tax-Free Plakette”. To do this, in the store with the seller, they should get a check“Tax-free-Scheck”Together with the envelope. Then this check is presented at customs when leaving the country. The refund amount is approximately 13% of the purchase amount.
Demography
Population of Austria is about 8188 thousand people. Population of Vienna - about 1.8 million people.
About 71% population lives in Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Styria and Vienna... Densely populated cities are also Salzburg and Innsbruck There are fewer people living in the mountainous regions of the country.
Since the beginning of the 70s, the country's population has stopped growing. The reason for this can be attributed to the decline in the birth rate. But, in Austria, the average life expectancy... She makes 78,8 of the year. Average life expectancy for men - 75,9 of the year, women - 81,7 of the year.
There is practically no natural population growth in the country. The number of births and deaths is almost the same and amounts to: 75.5 thousand... on 74.8 thousand... human. It should be noted that there is a decrease in both fertility and mortality. A small natural increase in the population is still preserved in the countryside. Besides, in last years more and more foreigners come to live in Austria.
Increasing in the country number of residents 60 years and older... Their share is OK. twenty%... This threatens Austria with a decrease in labor resources.
Industry
Main industries in Austria are considered mechanical engineering, chemical, food, pulp and paper and metallurgical.
After 1995, there has been a noticeable increase in industrial production in the country. The highest growth was observed in Carinthia, where production increased on 56,5% ... But in Vienna industrial production declined on 3,6% .
During the same period growth in the production of investment goods made up 56,5% , a consumer durables decreased on 0,5% ... A particularly rapid growth in production took place in the field of office equipment and information processing devices.
Main industrial and agricultural area Austria are Danube lands... Here are located the most significant economic centers... The high-mountainous territory of the country is dominated by sparsely populated areas, in which there is no industrial production.
In Austria there is uneven development of individual industries... Some of the most important manufacturing industries are completely absent here - aircraft construction. Other industries are underdeveloped, such as automotive and electronics manufacturing.
Automotive in Austria is mainly in the production of engines and gearboxes... Share them export is 90%
... Austria is world renowned for its bespoke production integrated circuits and chips... A fairly large role in the country's economy is played by export
Monetary unit in Austria - Euro (EURO), 1 EURO = 100 EURO cent. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. More profitable exchange currency in total in the banks of the country.
Banks work on weekdays from 8.00 to 12.30 and from 13.30 to 15.00.Banks close on Thursday at 17.30. V exchange offices the exchange rate is not so favorable. But they work every day without days off... They are open and a "trade margin" is added at train stations, but they are open from 8.00 to 20.00... There are currency exchange offices at airports, railway stations and in hotels. In addition, currency can be exchange also at the main post offices... They are open in large cities around the clock... When exchanging dollars at ATMs accepted only banknotes of 10, 20 and 50 USD. Credit cards you can pay in almost all major stores, restaurants, hotels and cafes.
When buying goods over 1000 euros in one store tourists have the opportunity return value added tax... For this you need to take a check from the store. When leaving the country, this check is presented at customs. In this case, the tax paid upon purchase will be refunded ( up to 20%).
Main religion in Austria is Catholicism... It is practiced around 78% residents of the country. Protestants are about 5% , most of them are Evangelical Lutheran. Muslims make up 4.2% of the total number of believers in the country. There is a fairly large increase in Muslims, especially in Vienna. Austria also has a small Jewish community which has about 10 thousand people... About 9% do not belong to any religion... Influence Catholic Church constantly falling .. Austrian trains are distinguished by their reliability and comfort. Travel to intercity buses is slightly cheaper than by rail.
Travel tickets can be purchased at the box office, newsstand or in the transport itself, but it will be a little more expensive. Tickets can be: 1 day, 3 days, week, month. In Austria, very well-developed network of urban bus lines . Public transport runs from 5 to 24 hours. Between 0.30 and 4.00 o'clock with an interval of 30 minutes they go night buses.
You can also use the services of taxi drivers. Taxi can be ordered by phone, they are also always on duty near airports and train stations.
Right on the street catching a taxi is almost impossible“You can“ vote ”for hours, but no one will stop. Better to find a taxi rank or ask to call a taxi from some hotel or restaurant.
Tourists can also rent a car... For this must have with me international law and credit card... The tourist must be at least 21 years old. Most Trusted Car Rental Company in Austria it is considered " Europcar". Car rental points are available at all airports and in major cities of the country. In their country, tourists can also pre- reserve a car at a special rate.
Rent price car from 30 euro for a rental period of one week. Necessarily you need to have a credit card. Recommended the company "Europcar", as the best for Austria in terms of price-quality ratio.
Traveling on motorways and expresswayspaid... Right-hand traffic. Need to know that in winter some roads and passes in Tyrol may be closed due to the danger of avalanches. In some regions necessarily need snow chains. Parking in AustriapaidMonday through Friday... Almost 39% of the entire territory of Austria is covered with forests. About 19% of the land in Austria is completely unsuitable for agricultural use. Most of agricultural land busy meadows and pastures.The rest is set aside under growing crops, fruits and grapes.
The most fertile lands located in the foothills of the Alps and in the areas of Styrian and Vienna basins... Country by 90% provides himself with the necessary food. A small amount of meat, wheat, corn and dairy products for sale for export... Very important for Agriculture the country has animal husbandry. Leading industry is an dairy farming.
If tip is included in the bill, then give extra money not necessary... Tips accepted to give restaurant waiter, taxi driver and hotel porter. To the porter usually give 10 cents for one piece of baggage. Maid hotel usually do not pay.
In restaurants tip is in the amount 10-15% from the account. Porters services at train stations and at the airport are paid at fixed rates.
National characteristics
Austrians may seem a little arrogant... But at the same time they are enough hospitable and friendly... They easy contact with foreigners, responsive and always ready to help. The main distinguishing features of this people can be called their politeness and punctuality.
Austrian national cuisine traditionally considered one of the best in Europe. On its formation big influence provided by immigrants from border states. Traditional food
Medical service in Austria paid... To enter the country vaccination certificate not required.
Russian tourists are best addressto the first-aid post at the Russian Embassy.
In all cities and settlements there are countries pharmacies and doctors... Pharmacies in turn open at night and on Sundays... In the event that a pharmacy in this moment closed, it will announcement with indication of the nearest working pharmacy.
Emergency Medical Information tourists can get in police stations or in the phone book. All mountain resorts countries equipped rescue services.
Full official form of the name of the state: Republic
Form of government: Federal Republic
Membership in international organizations: is a member of the UN (since 1955) and is a member of a number of specialized UN agencies (UNESCO, UNIDO, WHO, FAO, IFAD, ILO, ICAO, ITU, UPU, WIPO, WMO, IAEA, IBRD, IFC, IMF, MAP, etc. ). is a member of the EU, WTO, OECD, OSCE, CE, CEI, EBRD, Interpol and other organizations
Square: 83,879 km² (114th in the world)
The border: total length 2562 km
* in the north with the Czech Republic - 362 km,
* in the north-east with Slovakia - 91 km,
* in the east with Hungary - 366 km,
* in the south with Slovenia - 330 km and Italy - 430 km,
* in the west with Liechtenstein - 35 km and Switzerland - 164 km,
* in the northwest with Germany - 784 km
Population: 8 401 940 people (2011, census) (94th in the world)
Population density: 101.4 people / km² (80th place in the world)
Capital: Vienna
: 9 lands
Official language: German
Currency: Euro
Internet domain:.at
Timezone:(UTC + 1, summer UTC + 2)
Telephone code:+61
OKSM codes: AU (alpha-2) AUS (alpha-3) 040 (numeric code)
Geographical position
Flora and fauna
The country is rich forests(47% of the entire territory). For Austrian flora characteristic oak-beech forest in the valleys, and at an altitude of more than 500 m - mixed beech-spruce forest. Above 1200 m, spruce prevails, larch and cedar are found. Alpine meadows in the foothills.
Fauna- typical Central European. There are roe deer, hare, deer, pheasant, partridge, fox, marten, badger, squirrel. The surroundings of the Neusiedler See lake are unique protected nesting places for birds of various species. In the high-mountainous regions of the Eastern Alps, the composition of the fauna is typically Alpine.
Political system
Legislature
The highest legislative body and the body of people's representation- a bicameral Federal Assembly, consisting of the National Council (NA) and the Federal Council (Bundesrat). Joint meetings of the Federal Assembly are held when the President is sworn in and to decide on the declaration of war. It can also call a referendum to dismiss the president.
Legislative functions are performed by the National Assembly (together with the Bundesrat), elected for 4 years in direct general elections by secret ballot. The President of the National Assembly, as well as the second President of the National Assembly and the third President of the National Assembly carry out the leadership of the National Assembly. These three presidents form a collegium and act as federal president when he is unable to do so.
Representation of political parties in the National Council
The second chamber of the Austrian parliament is the Bundesrat. 64 of its members represent 9 federal states in proportion to their population (for example, Lower - 12, and Vorarlberg and Burgenland - 3 each). Members of the Bundesrat are elected and delegated by the Landtags for 4 or 6 years. The Bundesrat can challenge the law, and then the National Council votes again with a larger quorum. The President of the Bundesrat is elected alternately in alphabetical order from each land for a period of six months.
Representation of political parties in the Federal Council
Elections to all organs of popular representation are universal, direct, free and equal by secret ballot. All citizens who have reached the age of 18 are granted the right to vote. Participation in the presidential elections is compulsory. Elections to the National Assembly are held according to a proportional system (three-tier proportional system: 1 vote for a specific party list, within the list - for a specific candidate in the regional and land constituencies). In the National Assembly there are parties that have won a regional mandate or have received 4% of the votes in the whole.
Executive power
Supreme body of executive power- federal government. Formed on February 28, 2003 from representatives of the ANP and the APS, the government consists of 11 federal ministries: Social Security, Generations and Consumer Protection (Minister Vice-Chancellor H. Haupt, APS); foreign affairs; internal affairs; justice; national defense; finance; economics and labor; agriculture and forestry, environment and water management; health and women's affairs; transport, innovation and technology; education, science and culture.
The government is headed by the Federal Chancellor. He forms the cabinet and coordinates its work. When making decisions, the principle of unanimity is applied. The chancellor must take into account the opinion of the vice chancellor, whose role in the Austrian coalition government is great.
Heads of government (federal chancellors)
Judicial branch
Administrative divisions
The Austrian federation consists of 9 states, which have their own parliament (Landtag), constitution and government. The Lower and Upper lands lie on both sides of the Danube, and Salzburg, Tyrol, Vorarlberg, Carinthia and Styria are wholly or mostly in the Alps; Burgenland is located on the outskirts of the Middle Danube Lowland in the east of the country. The city of Vienna - the capital - is administratively equated to the lands.
Population
Cities
Most big cities: Vienna, Graz (238 thousand people), Linz (203 thousand people), Salzburg (144 thousand people), Innsbruck (118 thousand people). The share of the urban population is 60%.
National composition
Ethnic composition the population is homogeneous, about 98% are German-speaking Austrians. In addition, there are 6 recognized national minorities: Croats, Slovenes, Czechs, Slovaks, Hungarians, Gypsies (about 300 thousand people in total).
According to the 2001 census, the number of foreigners is 707 thousand. (8.8%), according to estimates - more than 760 thousand, of which 45% are citizens of the former Yugoslavia.
Austria - a small country located in the center of Europe, consists of 9 federal states: Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Burgerland, Styria, Carinthia, Tyrol, Vorarlberg, Vienna and Salzburg. The city of Vienna - the capital of Austria - is administratively equated to the lands.
The division of the country into lands has developed historically: almost each of the lands is a former independent feudal possession. In fact, modern Austria is a centralized state.
Austria is landlocked. Here, on an area of 84 thousand square meters. km is home to about 11 million people, i.e. less than in Greater London.
Austria's geographic location facilitates its communication with others European countries, of which it directly borders on the family: in the east - the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia, in the west - Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the Principality of Liechtenstein. This provides Austria with favorable transport and geographical conditions for mutually beneficial trade with neighboring countries.
The territory of Austria is elongated in the form of a wedge, strongly narrowed in the west and widened in the east. This configuration of the country resembles, according to some, a bunch of grapes.
The largest cities are Vienna, Graz, Linz and Salzburg.
The location in the center of Europe makes Austria the crossroads of a number of trans-European meridian routes (from the Scandinavian countries and states central Europe through the Alpine passes Brenner and Semmering to Italy and other countries). Serving the transit of goods and passengers gives Austria a certain amount of income in foreign currency.
In addition, as it is easy to establish from a physical map, the state borders of Austria for the most part coincide with natural boundaries - mountain ranges or rivers. Only with Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia (on a small stretch), they pass almost on flat terrain.
When our compatriot, heading to Austria by train, crosses the Czech-Austrian border in the northeastern corner of the country, he is somewhat disappointed. Where is Alpine Austria? Around, as far as the eye can see, a treeless, plowed plain, flat as a table. Here and there green islands of orchards and vineyards, brick houses and lonely trees on the borders and along the roads flicker. Plains and rolling lowlands extend from here far to the south along the entire border with Hungary and occupy 20% of the territory. But upon reaching Vienna, we find ourselves in a more typical Austrian natural environment: mountains, the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) - the northeastern outpost of the mighty Alps and the high-hilly wide and open Danube valley, which rises noticeably in the western direction. If you climb one of the peaks of the Vienna Woods, for example, Kahlenberg (“Bald Mountain”), then far in the north and north-west in the blue haze beyond the Danube you can see the low, wooded, granite ridge of Šumava, only some of the peaks that rise slightly above 700 meters.
This ancient hill occupies 1/10 of the country's territory.
Undoubtedly, the Alps are the dominant landscape in Austria, they (together with the foothills) occupy 70% of the country's area. These are the Eastern Alps. So it is customary to call the part of the Alpine mountain system, lying to the east of the Upper Rhine valley, along which the state border with Switzerland passes here. What is the difference between the Eastern and Western Alps? To the east of the Rhine Fault, the alpine ridges take a latitudinal direction, begin to fan out, as it were, and descend. The Eastern Alps are wider and lower than the Western Alps, they are more accessible. There are fewer glaciers here, and the largest of them are about half the size of Switzerland. In the Eastern Alps, there are more meadows and especially forests, and the Eastern Alps are much richer in minerals than the Western ones.
If you cross the Alps from north to south, it is easy to see that geological structure and the composition of their constituent rocks is located symmetrically relative to the axial zone. This zone is the highest and most powerful group of ridges covered with glaciers and snows, among which the Hohe Tauern stands out with the highest point of the country - the two-headed peak Glosglockner (“Big Bell”), reaching 3997m; Ötztal, Stubai, Zillertay Alps. All of them, together with the ridges adjoining from the west and east, are composed of hard crystalline rocks - granites, gneisses, crystalline schists. The largest glacier - Pasterce - has a length of about 10 km and an area of 32 km 2.
To the north and south of the axial zone, there are ridges composed of hard sedimentary rocks, mainly limestones and dolomites: the Lichtal Alps, Karwendel, Dakhshtein, Hochshvat and other ridges of the Northern Limestone Alps up to the aforementioned Vienna Woods in the extreme northeast. Unlike the peaked peaks of crystalline ridges, limestone mountains are giant blocks with more or less flat, slightly sloping surfaces and almost steep or even overhanging slopes. The years are mostly bare, there are sinkholes, caves and other forms of karst relief, formed by melt rainwater in soluble limestones and dolomites.
The peripheral zone of the Alps is formed by the low with soft outlines of the peaks and slopes of the Predalps, composed of loose sedimentary rocks. And within Austria, this zone is well expressed in the north, but in the south it is absent.
One of the features of the Alps is that they are dissected by deep and wide transverse valleys, due to which the deep parts of the Alps are relatively easily accessible, and the low, comfortable passes allow you to easily cross the country from north to south in a number of places. Thus, the famous Brenner Pass has a height of 1371m, and the Semmering Pass - 985m. It is no coincidence that the Alpine passes were laid long ago railways some without tunnels.
