Germany is the country with the highest population in Europe, and in spite of the complicated economic situation arising from the Reunification, it continues to be one of the leading countries in the industrialized world. With an area of 350,000 square kilometers cuadrados in the center of Europe, and bordering 9 other countries, it is home of nearly 82 million inhabitants, of which around 7.3 million bear foreign passports.
As a consequence of World War II, Germany was divided in 1949 into two different states: the Federal Republic of Germany, based on a free market economy, and the Socialist German Democratic Republic. A pacific revolution culminated in 1990 with the fall of Berlin Wall and the reunification. The Branderburg Gate in Berlin, the new (former) capital became a symbol of freedom and peace.
A state-of-the-art transportation network which includes highways, trains and air travel guarantees those attending the 2006 FIFA World Cup a short traveled event. More than 51 million passengers arrive every year at Frankfurt Airport, the busiest airport in Europe. The High Speed Intercity network and a superb highway system also ensure to international travelers comfortable trips between the venues to attend their favorite team's matches. |
