Austria

Austria, formally the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps. It is a federation of nine states, with Vienna as its capital and the most populous city. Austria is bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The country covers an area of 83,879 km² and has a population of about 9.2 million.

The area of today’s Austria has been inhabited since at least the Paleolithic period. Around 400 BC, it was home to the Celts before the Romans annexed it in the late 1st century BC. Christianization began in the 4th and 5th centuries, followed by the arrival of Germanic tribes.

Austria as a unified state emerged at the end of the first millennium, first as a frontier march of the Holy Roman Empire, then developing into a Duchy and later an Archduchy. It was the heartland of the Habsburg monarchy and a major imperial power for centuries, with Vienna serving as the administrative capital of the Holy Roman Empire from the 16th century onward.

Following World War I, Austria became the Republic of German-Austria and then the First Austrian Republic. After a period of political upheaval and annexation into Nazi Germany, Austria was liberated in 1945, regained its sovereignty, and declared perpetual neutrality in 1955.

Today, Austria is a semi-presidential representative democracy. It has a high standard of living and is a member of the United Nations, the European Union, and many other international organizations.

Etymology

Main article: Name of Austria

The name Austria comes from an old German word, Österreich, which means "eastern realm". This name first appeared in a document from the year 996. The word likely came from a Latin term used to describe the area.

Long ago, Austria was part of Bavaria, a region in Germany. The name "Austria" started being used in the 12th century and comes from changing the German name into Latin. At that time, Austria was the farthest east part of Bavaria, near the Danube River.

History

Main article: History of Austria

Prehistory and antiquity

The area that is now Austria was settled long ago by different groups of people. It became an important place for early European cultures, especially the Hallstatt culture, which started around the 6th century BC. The city of Hallstatt holds some of the oldest evidence of early European people.

Later, the Romans came and took control of much of the area around 16 BC. They called it Noricum and ruled it for many years until the Roman Empire fell in 476. Some parts of what is now Austria were in other Roman areas, like Pannonia and Raetia.

Middle Ages

After the Roman Empire fell, different groups moved into the area, including the Rugii, Ostrogoths, and others. In 788, Charlemagne, a king of the Franks, took control and brought Christianity. The area became known as the marchia Orientalis and was given to a local leader named Leopold of Babenberg in 976.

The name "Austria" first appeared in 996. In 1156, Austria became a duchy, and later, the Babenberg family ruled there. When the Babenbergs died out in 1246, control passed to Ottokar II of Bohemia until he was defeated in 1278 by Rudolph I of Germany. From then on, Austria's history was tied to the Habsburgs, a powerful family.

17th and 18th centuries

During this time, Austria fought wars, especially against the Turks. After a big battle in 1683 where the Turks were stopped, Austria took control of more land. The empire grew and became a important place for music, with famous composers like Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert living and working there.

19th century

Austria fought in many wars, including against France and later with Prussia. After losing a war to Prussia in 1866, Austria left a group of German states and formed a new country with Hungary, called Austria-Hungary. This new country included many different groups of people and was hard to govern.

Early 20th century

In 1908, Austria-Hungary took over Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 1914, the killing of Archduke Franz Ferdinand led to World War I, which ended the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Austria became a smaller country called German-Austria but was not allowed to join Germany. It was renamed the Republic of Austria.

Interwar period and World War II

After World War I, Austria faced hard times with money problems and political fights. In 1938, Germany took over Austria in an event called the Anschluss. During World War II, Austria was part of Germany and many terrible things happened there.

Allied occupation

After World War II, Austria was occupied by Allied forces. In 1945, Austrian leaders declared the country independent again. Austria was divided into zones controlled by different Allied countries.

Independence

In 1955, Austria became fully independent again and declared itself neutral, meaning it would not take sides in wars. This day is celebrated as National Day. The country joined the European Union in 1995.

Government and politics

Main article: Politics of Austria

The Parliament of Austria is in Vienna, Austria's capital city. Austria became a federal republic in 1920, and its government is based on that constitution. The president is the head of state and is elected by voters. The chancellor is the head of government and is chosen by the president.

Austria's parliament has two parts. The Nationalrat is the main part, with elections every five years for its 183 members. The Bundesrat is the second part and has limited powers.

Since 2006

After the 2006 election, the Social Democratic Party and the Austrian People's Party formed a government together. This changed over the years with different parties joining to govern. In 2017, the Austrian People's Party became the largest, and in 2020, they formed a government with the Green Party. Leaders changed often due to scandals and elections.

Foreign relations

Main article: Foreign relations of Austria

In 1955, Austria became independent again after World War II and declared itself neutral, meaning it would not join military alliances. Austria has been part of many international peace efforts and joined partnerships for peace and security.

Military

Austria's military relies on people who choose to serve. Some young men must serve for a time, but others can choose civilian service instead. Women can also serve voluntarily. The military is small and focuses on defense and helping in emergencies. Austria is known for being peaceful and helps in international peace missions.

Administrative divisions

Main article: States of Austria

Austria is made up of nine states. These states are divided into smaller areas called districts and cities. Vienna is both a city and a state. Each state has its own government but follows the country's laws.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Austria

Austria is a country filled with mountains because it is located in the Alps. The Central Eastern Alps, Northern Limestone Alps, and Southern Limestone Alps all stretch through parts of Austria. Out of all the land in Austria (83,871 km²), only about a quarter is flat, and just 32% of the country is below 500 metres tall. The western part of Austria, covered by the Alps, gives way to lower lands and plains in the east.

Austria lies between 46° and 49° N latitude, and from 9° to 18° E longitude.

Climate

Most of Austria has a cool and temperate climate, with winds mostly coming from the west. Because three-quarters of the country is covered by the Alps, the alpine climate is very common. In the east, especially in the Pannonian Plain and along the Danube valley, the climate is more continental with less rain. Winters in Austria can be cold, ranging from −10 °C to 0 °C, but summers can be warm, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s °C. The highest temperature ever recorded was 40.5 °C (105 °F) in August 2013.

Austria has several types of climates, including humid subtropical, oceanic, and cool/warm-summer humid continental. Because of its mountains, Austria feels the effects of climate change strongly. Temperatures have already risen nearly 2 °C since 1880, and are expected to keep rising. This change brings more frequent heavy rains, which can cause floods and landslides. The snowy mountains are also losing snow earlier in the year and glaciers are shrinking.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Austria

Austria is known for having a strong economy with a high amount of money made per person each year. This is because the country has many factories and industries, as well as a good system that helps balance business and the needs of people.

Tourism is also very important to Austria's economy. Many people from around the world visit Austria to enjoy its beautiful mountains and cities.

Germany has been Austria's biggest trading partner for a long time. Being part of the European Union has helped Austria connect more closely with other countries in Europe, bringing in more visitors and investors.

Infrastructure and natural resources

Main articles: Transport in Austria, Wind power in Austria, and Renewable energy in the European Union

Austria gets much of its power from water, using rivers to create electricity. The country also uses wind, sun, and plants to make energy. Trains are an important way people travel in Austria, run by the national train company.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Austria

Austria's population was about 9.2 million in July 2025. The capital, Vienna, has more than 2 million people, which is about a quarter of the country's population. Vienna is known for its culture and high living standards.

Vienna is the largest city. Graz is second with about 305,000 people, followed by Linz (213,000), Salzburg (157,000), Innsbruck (132,000), and Klagenfurt (105,000). All other cities have fewer than 100,000 people.

In 2024, about 1.8 million people in Austria were born in another country, making up about 22% of the population. Many come from countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Turkey, and Romania. There are also recognized groups like the Carinthian Slovenes and the Romani people.

The average age in Austria is about 44.5 years, making it one of the older populations in the world. Life expectancy is around 82 years. By 2080, the population is expected to grow to about 10.2 million, mainly due to people moving to Austria.

Largest cities

Main article: List of cities and towns in Austria

Language

Main article: Languages of Austria

German is the official language of Austria. Most people speak Bavarian or Alemannic dialects at home. Other languages spoken include Turkish, Serbian, Croatian, and English. In Carinthia, many people speak Slovene, and in Burgenland, Hungarian and Croatian are also common.

Ethnic groups

Most people in Austria have German roots, but there are also recognized groups like Slovenes in Carinthia, Croats and Hungarians in Burgenland, and the Romani people. Many people in Austria come from other countries, especially from the former East Bloc nations and the former Yugoslavia.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Austria

Religion in Austria (2021)

1. Catholicism (55.2%)
2. Eastern Orthodoxy (4.90%)
3. Protestantism (3.80%)
4. Old Catholicism (0.10%)
5. Other Christians (4.20%)
6. Islam (8.30%)
7. Buddhism (0.30%)
8. Hinduism (0.10%)
9. Judaism (0.10%)
10. Other religions (0.70%)
11. Unaffiliated (22.4%)

Austria has historically been a Catholic country. Over time, the number of people who identify with Christianity has decreased, while other religions have grown, especially in Vienna. Many people now do not follow any specific religion.

Education

Main article: Education in Austria

Education in Austria is managed by the government and varies by state. Children must attend school for nine years, usually from ages six to fifteen. Kindergarten is available for children aged three to six. Schools offer different paths, and students choose based on their abilities and interests. Austria spends a lot on education, and German is important in schools.

Health

Main article: Healthcare in Austria

Austria has good healthcare with many doctors and hospitals. However, like many places, it faces health challenges such as chronic conditions and cancer. The country spends a lot on health services, and there are many nurses, though there have been discussions about their numbers during recent health crises.

Medical personnel

Culture

Main article: Culture of Austria

Music

Main article: Music of Austria

Austria has made big contributions to music. Many famous composers were born there, like Joseph Haydn, Michael Haydn, Franz Liszt, Franz Schubert, Anton Bruckner, Johann Strauss Sr., and Johann Strauss Jr.. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg and spent much of his career in Vienna. Vienna was an important place for music, drawing composers for centuries because of support from leaders of the city.

Vienna became famous for music in the early 1500s, especially for its instruments. Ludwig van Beethoven lived much of his life there. Austria’s current national anthem comes from a piece by Mozart and was chosen after World War II. Famous Austrian conductor Herbert von Karajan led the Berlin Philharmonic for many years and is remembered as one of the greatest conductors.

Science and philosophy

Austria is also known for its scientists. Important names include Ludwig Boltzmann, Ernst Mach, Victor Franz Hess, and Christian Doppler. In the 1900s, Lise Meitner, Erwin Schrödinger, and Wolfgang Pauli helped develop nuclear science and quantum physics. Today, Anton Zeilinger and Peter Zoller are known for their work in quantum science.

Austria was also home to famous thinkers like Ludwig Wittgenstein and Karl Popper. Other important people include biologists Gregor Mendel and Konrad Lorenz, mathematician Kurt Gödel, and engineer Ferdinand Porsche. Bertha von Suttner was the first Austrian to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Austrian science has always included medicine and mind studies, beginning in old times with Paracelsus. Doctors such as Theodore Billroth helped build up the Vienna School of Medicine. Austria was home to famous mind experts like Sigmund Freud and Alfred Adler. In 2024, Austria ranked 17th in the world for new ideas, but dropped to 19th in 2025.

The Austrian School of Economics is well known, with economists such as Carl Menger, Joseph Schumpeter, Eugen von Böhm-Bawerk, Ludwig von Mises, and Friedrich Hayek.

Food and beverages

Austrian food comes from the old Austro-Hungarian Empire. Meals are carefully made, with good beef, pork, and many vegetable dishes. Bakeries are famous for treats like Sachertorte, doughnuts called “Krapfen,” and different kinds of “Strudel” such as apple, cheese, and milk-cream strudel.

Austrian dishes also come from other cultures like Hungarian, Czech, Polish, Jewish, Italian, Balkan, and French. Popular foods include Wiener Schnitzel, Schweinsbraten, Kaiserschmarren, Knödel, Sachertorte, and Tafelspitz. There are also special dough pockets called Kasnudeln filled with cheese, potatoes, and herbs. Eierschwammerl dishes are also common. Austria invented the sugar block dispenser Pez and Manner slices. Austria is famous for its Mozartkugeln candies and its coffee culture, with one of the highest coffee drinking rates in the world.

Beer comes in different sizes: 0.2-litre (Pfiff), 0.3-litre (Seidel), and 0.5-litre (Krügerl). At festivals, people drink one-litre Maß or two-litre Doppelmaß. Popular beers are lager (called Märzen in Austria), Zwicklbier, and wheat beer. During Christmas and Easter, people enjoy bock beer.

Austria grows great wine, mainly in Lower Austria, Burgenland, Styria, and Vienna. The Grüner Veltliner grape makes some of Austria’s best white wines, and Zweigelt is the most common red grape.

In Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Styria, and Carinthia, people drink Most, a kind of cider. Schnapps, a strong fruit drink, is also popular, made from fruits like apricots and rowanberries. Small private factories make about 20,000 types of schnapps.

Soft drinks like Almdudler are popular, as is a mix called Spezi, made from Coca-Cola and Orange Fanta or Frucade. Red Bull, the world’s top-selling energy drink, started in Austria.

Sports

Main article: Sport in Austria

Austria’s mountains make alpine skiing very popular. Many great skiers come from Austria, such as Annemarie Moser-Pröll, Franz Klammer, Hermann Maier, Toni Sailer, Benjamin Raich, Marlies Schild, and Marcel Hirscher. Austria is also known for great ski jumpers like Armin Kogler, Andreas Felder, Ernst Vettori, and Andreas Goldberger. Other winter sports like bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton are popular too, with a track in Igls that hosted Olympic events in 1964 and 1976. Innsbruck also hosted the first Winter Youth Olympics in 2012.

Football is managed by the Austrian Football Association. Austria did well in the past, like finishing fourth in the 1934 FIFA World Cup and third in 1954. The country co-hosted the 2008 UEFA European Football Championship with Switzerland. The top league is the Austrian Bundesliga, with teams like SK Rapid Wien, FK Austria Wien, Red Bull Salzburg, and Sturm Graz.

Other sports include ice hockey and basketball. Horseback riding is popular, especially at the famous Spanish Riding School of Vienna.

Austria has had successful Formula One drivers like three-time champion Niki Lauda. Other Austrian F1 drivers include Gerhard Berger and Jochen Rindt. Austria holds F1 races at the Red Bull Ring.

Tennis players from Austria include Thomas Muster, who won the 1995 French Open and was ranked world number 1, and Dominic Thiem, winner of the 2020 US Open.