Germany Pictures

The European continent’s largest economy, Germany is this area’s second most populous country.

A key member in various economic, defense, and political organizations, Germany is a founding member of the European Union and is partly responsible for the introduction of a unified currency, the euro, which encompasses 10 other EU countries.

Split into two states in 1949 after the beginning of the Cold War, the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic were once again united into the Federal Republic of Germany in 1989 after the end of the Cold War. The Berlin Wall, which had been the tangible symbol of the Iron Curtain which divided the two states, stands today as a reminder of when Germany had been divided into East and West.

Germany is located in Central Europe between Poland and Holland and lies south of Denmark. It is bordered by the North and Baltic Sea. The climate here is temperate and is usually cloudy and cool with wet winters and summers. The terrain is characterized by lowlands in the northern part, uplands in the middle, and Bavarian Alps in the southern part.

Germany’s economy relies on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. German-made electronic devices used for medical, scientific, and communication purposes are known all over the world for durability and quality and are consequently the most expensive. The country’s car manufacturing industry has the same reputation.

One of the oldest civilizations in Europe, Germanic tribes travelled all over the continent and the Danes, Swedes, Norwegians, Icelanders, Germans, Austrians, Dutch, and British are their descendants. Some of the greatest minds in literature, philosophy, science, arts, and architecture, music come from Germany.

Germany is considered by many as the “Crown Jewel” of travel to Europe, as it is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the continent. The scenic landscapes, quaint hamlets, and historically rich castles and monuments are only some of the things visitors come for.

The cuisine in Germany is similar to that of the British and Americans, and is basically continental. Germany has a popular saying which essentially translates to, “Breakfast like an emperor, lunch like a king, and dine like a beggar”. With travelling all over the world becoming easier and easier and immigration a common thing, German cuisine has embraced cooking from other countries such as Italian, Arab, Turkish, and even Chinese. Beer is Germany’s national alcoholic drink. They even have festivals to honour this drink of German origin.

Bavaria in the German Alps is like a fairytale land with castles perched on mountainsides. It is the most scenic part of the country and a must-see for visitors. The Romantic Road (Romantik Strasse) covers a multitude of roads that link several towns in Bavaria that are usually historic and picturesque.

The most popular town the Romantic Road passes through is Augsburg. Pleasantly situated, Augsburg offers good food and historic churches. Once an outpost of the Roman Empire, Augsburg was named after the emperor Augustus. Places to visit here are the Maximillian Museum and the Roman Museum. The Rathaus is also worth a visit as it had been fully restored to its former grandeur.
A medieval town on the Romantic Road, Rothenburg is considered a must-see in this area. It also has the reputation of being the best example of a German medieval town. It is basically a walled town with beautiful architecture and fine food and shopping.

No visit to Bavaria would be complete without going to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, Ludwig the second’s best attempt at recreating castles from the Age of Chivalry. Though not complete, it is spectacular as is and is one of the most photographed castles in Europe.

Another popular tourist spot is the Rhine Valley. The spectacular view of the valley, the rolling hills, the flowing rivers, and historic castles combined with great wines and food produce in the area an air of comfort and delight.

Munich, with its continental sophistication and business center air is surprisingly warm and charming. Great food, fests, and a lively nightlife are characteristic of the city and one should not miss it.

Germany has many things to offer visitors. Its culture, historic sites and architecture, cuisine, and history draw millions of tourists all over the world each year. If one were to plan a trip to Europe, Germany is sure to be part of the itinerary.

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