The Republic of France (La Republique Francaise), is the second largest county in Europe that has a long and glorious history. On referring to the county, the word 'romantic' must come into everyone's mind. Because of its unique historic relics, comfortable climate, and the romantic atmosphere, it attracts numerous visitors every year. Now it has listed the first among the famous tourist countries and receives most visitors in the world annually.



Fast Facts of France


Location: In western part of Europe. It neighbors these countries including Belgium, Luxemburg, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Spain, Andorra and Monaco and faces Britain across the English Channel. It also borders on the four seas - the North Sea, English Channel, Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Territory: The territory area of France is 212,975 square miles. Corsica Island on the Mediterranean Sea is the biggest island of France. Main mountain ranges include the Alps, Pyrenean, and Jura. Mont Blanc on the border of the France and Italy is the highest peak in Europe. Main rivers are Loire River, Rhone River and the Seine River.
Population: 63.3921 million in 2006. Four million are alien residents. Immigrant population is 4.9 million taking up 8.1 of the total population.
Language: French
Religion: 90% of the residence in France believes in Catholicism. About four million believe Muslim, Protestantism, Judaism, Buddhism and Orthodox Church.
Climate: The western part is the maritime climate. Southern part is subtropical Mediterranean climate and the middle and eastern part are both continental climate.
Capital City and Other Important Cities: Paris is the capital city and Lille, Cherbourg, Rouen, Nancy, Strasbourg, Orleans, Lyon, Toulouse, Nice, Marseille, Toulon are important cities in France.
Important Festivals: Noel, Paques, Paques, Pentecote, Jour de l'An, Fete Nationale, and Mardi gras.



Famous Attractions in France


Eiffel Tower: On the southern bank of the Seine River in center of Paris. It is the first high tower made of iron and steel in the world. Now, it is regarded as the symbol of Paris.
L'arc de Triomphe: Situated in the middle of the Square de Gaulle in the center of Paris. It is built for remember the war of 1806, in which the Federal forces of Russia and Austria was defeated by Napoleon.
Palais du Louvre: One of the largest royal palaces in France.
Notre-Dame de Paris: The most famous medieval Gothic church in France.
Place de la Bastille: It was once a military fortress from 1369 to 1382.
Le Pantheon: Built in 1791, it is the holy palace in memory of celebrities in French history.
Place de la Concorde in Paris: Built in 1757, it is the most famous plaza in France and the most beautiful one in the world.