List of countries in the world. Facts and information

Austria's landscape is dominated by majestic mountains, with the Eastern Alps alone covering 62% of the country's total area. The highest peak, Grossglockner Mountain (3,798 m), stands as Europe's second-highest point, home to the largest glacier, Pasterze. This awe-inspiring natural wonder has been actively melting since the 19th century, and its slopes host some of the finest ski resorts in Austria.

The state's name is derived from Old German and means Eastern country in translation.

The largest natural lake is the Neusiedler Sea, Europe's fourth largest body of water. It is located in the federal state of Burgenland. The lake is a salt marsh and is under the protection of UNESCO. Clean waters and good beaches have made the coastal area a popular holiday destination.

Austria today is the German-speaking part of the former Austria-Hungary empire, which was ruled by the influential Habsburg dynasty from 1526 to 1918, leaving a significant impact on the country’s history.

Austrian territory has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In 1991, an ancient human body was found in the ice of the Alps between Austria and Italy.

The region's history started with the Celts, followed by Roman conquest. Austria was first documented in the late 10th century.

The famous Queen Marie-Antoinette, the wife of Louis XVI, who died tragically during the Great French Revolution, was the youngest daughter of Emperor Francis I and Maria Theresa.

The Semmering railway in Austria, the world's first mountain railway, was constructed in the mid-19th century and still operates as part of the Southern Railway.

Austria is the birthplace of many famous composers, including Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, Liszt, Strauss, and Mahler. Their masterpieces are a significant source of pride for the country.

The famous Vienna Waltz was created precisely here. The music accompanying the Austrian folk dance was taken as the basis.

Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna's top attraction and a key architectural monument, showcasing the Austrian Baroque style. With 1,441 rooms, it captivates visitors with its impressive grandeur.

Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, created his theory while drinking coffee and discussing everyday problems in wonderful Austrian coffee shops.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, a renowned Hollywood actor and former governor of California, was born in a small village near Graz, Austria.

Vienna often ranks first in the Mercer Quality of Living Survey, scoring more than 100 points, indicating its exceptional life level.

Economist Intelligence Unit's global rating of the comfort of life: Vienna placed among the best cities, reflecting its stability and excellent state services.

Vienna is often rated as one of the world's best cities due to its safety, healthcare, and cost of living.

From 1526 to 1918, Austria-Hungary was a dual monarchy that included the Austrian Empire and the Hungarian Kingdom for several centuries. This alliance was created after the victory over the Ottoman Empire in the Battle of Mohács in 1526.

The Austro-Hungarian Empire was influential in European politics and culture, characterized by diverse ethnic groups. It disintegrated after the First World War, resulting in the formation of the independent Austrian Republic and the Kingdom of Hungary.

The majestic Krimml waterfalls in the High Tower National Park claim the title of the highest waterfall in Europe. The total height of the waterfall is 380 meters (1,247 feet); it descends in three impressive steps, surrounded by breathtaking alpine landscapes of the Austrian Alps.

People often confuse Austria and Australia because of their similar names, leading to jokes about special stands at Austrian airports for travelers to Australia.