Germany is a country in Central Europe, known for its rich history, culture, and significant influence on European and world affairs. It is bordered by nine countries: Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west. The capital city is Berlin, which is also the largest city in the country. Germany has a federal parliamentary republic form of government and consists of 16 federal states (Bundesländer).
Germany has a diverse landscape that includes forests, mountains, rivers, and coastlines along the North and Baltic Seas. It is recognized for its strong economy, characterized by a high level of industrialization, a robust export market, and a strong focus on technology and innovation. German culture is notable for its contributions to philosophy, literature, music, and the arts, with famous figures such as Goethe, Beethoven, and Einstein emerging from the country.
As a leading member of the European Union (EU) and a key player in international politics, Germany plays a vital role in global economic and social issues. The country is also known for its engineering and automotive industries, particularly brands like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.