Page 21 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Austria

INTRODUCING A USTRIA  19

A PORTRAIT OF AUSTRIA

Magnificent mountains span two-thirds of present-day Austria, gathering in a
massif at the centre of the country. The breathtaking scenery of Alpine peaks,
lakes and enchanting valleys, together with excellent year-round facilities for
a variety of sports, attracts many visitors. Innumerable cultural events and
fascinating historical sights make every visit unforgettable.

Austria grew at a crossroads, with the (Bundesländer), each with a provincial
main routes between northern Europe and capital. The head of state is the president,
Italy, and from western to eastern Europe, elected for a term of six years; the most
meeting at Vienna. The Habsburg kings important political figure is the head of
and emperors, who ruled the country for the federal government, or chancellor (as
almost seven centuries, pursued expan­ in Germany). The government consists of a
sion via matrimonial alliances rather than legislative branch, comprising a two­house
sending troops into battle. Although not parliament, and an executive branch.
entirely avoiding bloodshed, they managed Parliamentary elections are held every four
to incorporate several provinces into years, when votes are cast for candidates
central Austria through a series of arranged put up by the political parties. Although
marriages, beginning with the duchy of there are a number of political parties,
Tyrol, followed by the powerful Czech including a strong coalition of environ­
kingdom, the equally strong Hungary and mental groups, since 1949 the conservative
a sizeable chunk of Italy. Austrian culture, Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) and the
while traditionally linked with that of centre­left Social Democratic Party of
Germany, became an eclectic mix of Austria (SPÖ) have dominated parliament.
Italian, Slav and Hungarian influences. Voter participation is high, with as much
Austria’s contemporary political structure as 75 per cent turnout in federal elections.
is similar to that of most other states in The minimum voting age is 16.
the European Union (EU). The country is a Like Switzerland, Austria is officially a
federal state, consisting of nine provinces neutral state, a status established by the

View over the Hohe Tauern mountain range, from Heiligenblut in Carinthia
Riding a motorcycle on the high Grossglockner Alpine road, Austrian Alps

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