Germany Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Germany, a republic in Northern Central Europe; 357,022 km², 82.9 million residents (2019).The German Federal Republic was formally established in October 1990, when East Germany (GDR) was incorporated into West Germany (BRD). The former West Germany makes up 70 percent of today’s Germany. The country borders in the north to Denmark and the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, in the east to Poland, in the southeast to the Czech Republic, in the south to Austria and Switzerland and in the west to France, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands. Germany consists of 16 states, Countries, and the capital has been Berlin since 1991 (3.4 million residents in 2014).

Country facts

Federal Republic of Germany / Federal Republic of Germany
Country abbreviation: DE (D)
Area: 356 730 km²
Population (2019): 82.9 million residents
Capital: Berlin
Main language: German
State: Republic
Head of State: Frank-Walter Steinmeier (President)
Head of Government: Angela Merkel
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 48,196
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 47 180
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country number (telephony): 49
Internet domain names: de
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: October 3 (the country’s reunification, 1990)

Nature

Land use: forest (31%), agricultural land (20%), other (49%)
Highest mountain: Zugspitze (2 962 m asl)
Longest river: Rhine (1,320 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 232 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): −0.2%; birth number 10 ‰, death number 12 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (13%), 15-64 (66%), 65- (21%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 78 years, women 83 years
Infant mortality (2019): 3 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 79 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.936 (place 5 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 77%
Most populous cities (2014): Berlin (3.4 million residents), Hamburg (1.7 million), Munich (1.4 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (31%), service (68%)
Exports (2017): USD 1,443,000 million
Main export products: machinery, vehicles, chemicals
Main exporting countries: USA, France, China
Imports (2017): US $ 1 135 000 million
Main import products: machinery, vehicles, chemicals
Main Importing Countries: The Netherlands, China, France
Railway network (2017): 33 600 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Germany is located in central Europe and is bordered by nine countries, making it one of the most strategically located nations on the continent. To the north, it shares borders with Denmark, to the east with Poland and the Czech Republic, to the south with Austria and Switzerland, and to the west with France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The country covers an area of approximately 357,022 square kilometers, making it the seventh-largest country in Europe. Its geographical position has made it a key player in European and global affairs for centuries.

Germany’s landscape is diverse, ranging from the flat northern plains to the rugged southern Alps. Its central location in Europe places it within a temperate zone, providing it with a range of ecosystems, from forests and mountains to rivers and valleys. The country has a variety of natural resources and has historically been an important hub for trade, innovation, and culture. Germany is also home to several large rivers, including the Rhine, Elbe, and Danube, which play crucial roles in transportation and the economy.

Major Landforms

Germany’s geography is defined by its variety of landforms, ranging from the coastal regions in the north to the mountainous regions in the south. In the north, Germany’s coastline stretches along the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, where sandy shores and tidal flats are common. This region is low-lying, with a gentle gradient, and is known for its scenic beauty, particularly in places like the island of Sylt and the Wadden Sea.

Moving southward, the terrain becomes more varied. The central region of Germany is characterized by the Central German Uplands, which consist of low mountains, hills, and valleys. This region includes the famous Harz Mountains, which rise to over 1,100 meters above sea level, and the Thuringian Forest. The Uplands are rich in natural resources such as coal, making them historically important for Germany’s industrial development.

The southern part of the country is dominated by the Bavarian Alps, with Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze, located here at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet). These mountains serve as a major tourist destination, attracting visitors for skiing, hiking, and their picturesque landscapes. The Alps also form part of Germany’s border with Austria and contribute to the country’s climatic and ecological diversity.

Germany’s rivers, such as the Rhine and the Elbe, are not only natural landmarks but also play critical roles in the country’s economy and history. The Rhine River, for example, is one of Europe’s longest and most important rivers, facilitating trade from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea. The Elbe River flows through major cities such as Dresden and Hamburg, and the Danube River, which runs through southern Germany, is another key waterway in central Europe.

Rivers and Lakes

Germany’s rivers have played an important role in the country’s development, particularly in the transport of goods and people. The Rhine River is one of the most important waterways in Europe, flowing from the Swiss Alps through Germany to the North Sea. It has historically been an important route for trade and commerce, as well as the site of numerous cultural and historical events. The river is surrounded by picturesque towns and vineyards, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The Elbe River, which flows from the Czech Republic through Germany to the North Sea, is another key waterway. The Elbe passes through important cities such as Dresden and Hamburg, playing a crucial role in regional trade and industry. The Danube, Europe’s second-longest river, flows through Germany from the Black Forest to the Black Sea. The river passes through several countries, making it one of Europe’s most important international trade routes.

Germany is also home to several notable lakes, including Lake Constance (Bodensee), which lies along the border between Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Lake Constance is a major recreational area, known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Another significant lake is Lake Neuchâtel, located in the northern part of Germany near the border with Switzerland, known for its importance to local agriculture and as a tourist destination.

Climate

Climate Zones

Germany has a temperate climate, characterized by moderate rainfall and moderate to cool temperatures throughout the year. The climate varies significantly from north to south due to the country’s topography and geographic location. The northern parts of the country experience an oceanic climate, influenced by the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The climate here is generally milder, with relatively cool summers and winters.

The central and southern regions of Germany experience a more continental climate, with colder winters and warmer summers. In the southern regions, particularly in Bavaria and the Alps, the climate can be classified as Alpine, with colder temperatures and significant snowfall in the winter. The mountainous regions experience distinct seasonal variations, with colder winters, while the lower lands in the central and northern regions are more temperate.

The western and coastal regions of Germany, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, tend to have more rainfall and moderate temperatures year-round. These areas, such as the Rhineland and parts of North Rhine-Westphalia, experience milder winters and cooler summers compared to the southern regions.

Seasonal Variation

Germany experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring (March to May) is characterized by mild temperatures and the blossoming of flowers and trees, while the summer (June to August) brings warmer temperatures, though not excessively hot. Average temperatures in the summer months range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), though southern regions can experience higher temperatures.

Autumn (September to November) is marked by cooler weather and the changing of the leaves on deciduous trees, creating vibrant autumn colors across the country. Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures, especially in the northern and eastern regions, where temperatures can drop below freezing. Snowfall is common in the Alps and higher altitudes, and some lowland areas can also experience snow, though it is less frequent.

Germany’s seasonal climate affects various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, tourism, and energy. For instance, winter tourism in the Bavarian Alps, such as skiing, attracts millions of visitors each year. The seasonal variations also impact energy consumption, particularly for heating during the colder months.

People

Demographics

Germany has a population of approximately 83 million people, making it the most populous country in Europe. The population is diverse, with a mix of ethnic groups, though the majority of the population is of German descent. The country has a long history of immigration, and today, around 25% of the population has a foreign background, including people of Turkish, Polish, Russian, and Italian origin. This diversity is particularly evident in large cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich, where multicultural communities thrive.

Germany’s population is aging, with a low birth rate and increasing life expectancy. The median age of the population is around 45 years, and the country faces challenges related to an aging workforce and the need to integrate immigrants into the economy and society. Germany has a well-developed healthcare system that contributes to its high life expectancy, and efforts are being made to address the demographic imbalance by encouraging immigration and improving support for the elderly population.

The population is highly urbanized, with around 77% of people living in urban areas. Major cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and Frankfurt are hubs for culture, business, and education, while rural areas remain important for agriculture and traditional industries. The country has several metropolitan regions, with Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin being among the most important economic centers in Europe.

Language and Religion

The official language of Germany is German, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population. German is a West Germanic language and is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. While German is the official language, many Germans also speak other languages, especially English, French, and Turkish, due to historical and modern migration patterns. The language has several regional dialects, such as Bavarian, Swabian, and Saxon, though Standard German is used in government, education, and the media.

Germany is a secular country, although religion still plays a significant role in the lives of many citizens. The majority of Germans are Christians, with a split between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. Catholicism is more prevalent in the southern and western regions, while Protestantism (particularly Evangelicalism) is more common in the northern and eastern parts of the country. The country has a long history of religious diversity, with the Reformation and the Thirty Years’ War playing key roles in shaping the religious landscape.

In addition to Christianity, Islam is the second-largest religion in Germany, due to the country’s significant Turkish and Middle Eastern immigrant populations. Smaller religious groups include Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, and other non-Christian faiths. While Germany is a predominantly Christian country, secularism is widespread, and many Germans identify as non-religious or agnostic.

Economy

Economic Overview

Germany is the largest economy in Europe and the fourth-largest in the world. It is known for its highly developed industrial base, robust services sector, and strong export-driven economy. Germany is the world’s leading exporter of goods, particularly machinery, vehicles, chemicals, and electronics. Its economy is characterized by a strong industrial sector, particularly in automotive manufacturing, engineering, and chemicals.

The country is home to some of the world’s largest and most influential companies, including automotive giants like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Germany’s manufacturing sector is highly innovative, with a strong focus on engineering and technological development. The country is also a leader in renewable energy production and has made significant investments in wind and solar energy.

Services, particularly finance, insurance, and real estate, make up a significant portion of Germany’s GDP. Frankfurt is one of Europe’s major financial centers and is home to the European Central Bank. The country’s advanced infrastructure, skilled labor force, and high standards of education have contributed to its economic success.

Germany’s economy is also characterized by a strong welfare state, with high levels of public spending on healthcare, education, and social services. The labor market is robust, and the country has relatively low unemployment compared to many other European countries. However, there are challenges, such as an aging population and the need for integration of immigrants into the workforce.

Challenges and Opportunities

Germany faces several economic challenges, including its aging population, which has implications for the labor market and public finances. There is also growing concern over the increasing demand for energy and resources in the face of climate change. Germany has committed to reducing its carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources, which presents both challenges and opportunities for the economy.

The country’s manufacturing sector remains strong, but there are concerns about competition from emerging economies and the future of traditional industries. However, Germany’s commitment to innovation and research, particularly in areas such as automation, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, offers opportunities for growth in high-tech industries.

Germany’s strong position in global trade and its leadership in the European Union provide a platform for further economic development. The country is at the forefront of efforts to promote a digital economy, focusing on sectors such as e-commerce, digital health, and financial technology (fintech). The transition to a green economy, with an emphasis on sustainable practices and technologies, is another area of opportunity for Germany as it looks to maintain its economic strength while addressing environmental concerns.

Government

Political Structure

Germany is a federal parliamentary republic, with a system of government based on democratic principles. The head of state is the Federal President, who has a largely ceremonial role, while the head of government is the Chancellor, who holds executive power. The Chancellor is elected by the Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament, and leads the government. The Chancellor is responsible for shaping government policy, managing the country’s economic and foreign affairs, and representing Germany in international relations.

The Bundestag is the lower house of Germany’s parliament, and its members are elected every four years through a mixed-member proportional representation system. The Bundestag plays a significant role in making laws, approving the federal budget, and overseeing the work of the government. The upper house, the Bundesrat, represents the sixteen states (Länder) of Germany and has the authority to veto certain laws passed by the Bundestag.

The judicial system in Germany is independent, with a strong legal framework based on civil law. The Federal Constitutional Court is the highest court in the country and ensures that the laws of Germany align with the Constitution (Grundgesetz). The country has a well-established legal framework that guarantees individual rights and freedoms.

Political History

Germany’s political history is marked by significant shifts, including the formation of the Holy Roman Empire, the rise of the Prussian monarchy, the unification of Germany in the 19th century, and the division of the country after World War II. The establishment of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949, following the defeat of Nazi Germany, marked a new chapter in the country’s history, with the creation of a democratic government based on the principles of the rule of law and human rights.

The country’s reunification in 1990, following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War, was a pivotal moment in German history. Today, Germany is a major economic and political power in Europe, and it plays an important role in the European Union and international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the World Trade Organization.

The country’s political landscape has evolved significantly in recent decades, with a focus on democratic reforms, human rights, and social welfare. Despite challenges, such as economic inequality, political fragmentation, and debates over immigration, Germany remains a stable, democratic nation with a high level of political and social development.