Page 21 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide 2016 - 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, when the main Present-day Austria is a federal state,
routes between northern Europe and Italy, consisting of nine provinces
and from western to eastern Europe, met at (Bundesländer). The head of state is the
Vienna. The Habsburg kings and emperors, president, elected for a term of six years;
who ruled the country for almost seven the most important political figure is the
centuries, pursued expansion via matrimonial head of the federal government, or
alliances rather than sending troops into Chancellor (as in Germany). Austria’s
battle. Although not entirely without legislative power rests with a two-
bloodshed, they managed to incorporate chamber parliament. Parliamentary
several provinces into Central Austria elections are held every four years, when
through a series of arranged marriages, votes are cast for the candidates put up by
beginning with the duchy of Tyrol, followed the political parties. The present Austrian
by the powerful Czech kingdom, the equally parliament includes representatives of six
strong Hungary and a sizeable chunk of political parties: the Social Democratic
Italy. Austrian culture, while traditionally Party of Austria (SPÖ), the Austrian People’s
linked with that of Germany, also absorbed Party (ÖVP), the far right Freedom Party of
many Roman, Slav and Hungarian influences, Austria (FPÖ), the Greens (die Grünen),
thus creating its own unique combinations. Team Stronach (FRANK) and the New
As well as producing many outstanding Austria and Liberal Forum (NEOS).
artists and composers, such as Mozart, it For modern-day Austrians, the might
also offered foreign artists the opportunity of their former empire is only a distant
to further their talents. memory, yet their country continues to

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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