Austria’s Geographical Location
Austria is a landlocked country located in Central Europe with a total area of 83,879 square kilometers. It is bordered by eight countries, making it a critical crossroad for trade and travel between Eastern and Western Europe. Its central location has also made it a historical battleground, with several wars fought in the region over the centuries.
Germany: The First Neighbor of Austria
To the north and northwest of Austria is Germany, the largest country in Central Europe. The two countries share a border that stretches for over 800 kilometers, with many towns and cities on both sides of the border, such as Passau and Salzburg, that have historic cultural ties. The relationship between Germany and Austria has been complex throughout history, with periods of cooperation and conflict.
Switzerland: The Second Neighbor of Austria
To the west of Austria is Switzerland, another landlocked country in Central Europe with a population of just over eight million people. The two countries share a border that is approximately 164 kilometers long, with several crossings that are important for trade and tourism. Both countries are known for their picturesque mountain landscapes, and many tourists travel between the two for winter sports and hiking.
Italy: The Third Neighbor of Austria
To the south of Austria is Italy, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. The two countries share a border that stretches for approximately 430 kilometers, with several mountain ranges, including the Dolomites, that are popular among hikers and skiers. The relationship between Italy and Austria has been shaped by centuries of cultural and political exchanges.
Liechtenstein: The Fourth Neighbor of Austria
To the east of Switzerland and south of Germany is the small principality of Liechtenstein, with a population of just over 38,000 people. The country is one of the smallest in the world and is bordered by Switzerland to the west and south and Austria to the east. The border between Austria and Liechtenstein is approximately 35 kilometers long and is largely mountainous, with several popular hiking trails.
Slovenia: The Fifth Neighbor of Austria
To the south of Austria is Slovenia, a small country with a population of just over two million people. The two countries share a border that stretches for approximately 330 kilometers, with several crossings that are vital for trade and tourism. Both countries are known for their natural beauty, with many tourists traveling between the two for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.
Czech Republic: The Sixth Neighbor of Austria
To the north of Austria is the Czech Republic, another landlocked country in Central Europe with a population of just over ten million people. The two countries share a border that is approximately 362 kilometers long, with several historic towns and cities on both sides of the border that have cultural and economic ties. The relationship between the Czech Republic and Austria has been shaped by centuries of political and cultural exchanges.
Slovakia: The Seventh Neighbor of Austria
To the east of Austria is Slovakia, a small landlocked country with a population of just over five million people. The two countries share a border that is approximately 105 kilometers long, with several crossings that are important for trade and tourism. Both countries are known for their natural beauty, with many tourists traveling between the two for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.
Hungary: The Eighth Neighbor of Austria
To the east of Austria is Hungary, a landlocked country with a population of just over nine million people. The two countries share a border that stretches for approximately 366 kilometers, with several crossings that are important for trade and tourism. Both countries are known for their rich cultural heritage, with many tourists traveling between the two for sightseeing and cultural events.
The Geography of Austria’s Neighbors
Austria’s neighbors are all located in Central Europe and are known for their natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant economies. The countries share several mountain ranges, including the Alps, that are popular among hikers and skiers, and several important rivers, including the Danube, that are vital for trade and transportation.
Conclusion: Austria’s Relations with Its Neighbors
Austria’s relations with its neighbors have been shaped by centuries of cultural, political, and economic exchanges. The country’s central location has made it a critical crossroad for trade and travel, and its neighbors have played an important role in its history and development. Today, Austria has strong diplomatic and economic ties with all its neighbors and is an important member of the European Union.
References and Further Reading
- "Austria." CIA World Factbook, Central Intelligence Agency, 2021, www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/austria/.
- "Austria." Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 2021, www.britannica.com/place/Austria.
- "Austria’s Neighbors." Austria.info, Österreich Werbung, 2021, www.austria.info/en/austria-s-neighbours.
