Facts about France |
|
| Name | French Republic |
| Continent | Europe |
| Capital | Paris |
| Largest City | Paris |
| Area | 220,668 square miles |
| Population | 65,630,692 (2012 estimate) |
| GDP (PPP) - per capita | $35,000 (2011 estimate) |
| GDP (real growth rate) | 1.70% |
| Form of Government | Republic |
| Administrative Units | 27 regions |
| Republic Day (Fifth Republic) | 4-Oct-58 |
| Head of State | President Nicolas Sarkozy |
| Head of Government | PM Francois Fillon |
| Currency | Euro |
| Major Languages | French |
| Major Religions | Roman Catholic (85%), Protestant |
Where is France?
France is a country located on the western edge of the European continent. It is bordered by Belgium and Luxembourg to the north, Germany and Switzerland to the east, Italy to the south-east and Spain to the south-west.
Paris is the capital of France. It is located in the northern region of France on the river Seine. One of the most beautiful and romantic of all cities, the city is also a culture-gully. Paris is the largest city in France; it has an estimated population of 2,193,031. Owing to its location and the beautiful detinations in the city, Paris is the most-visited city in the world. The famous Eiffel Tower is also located in Paris.
What are the administrative divisions of France?
For administrative purposes, France is divided into twenty-seven regions that are further divided into 101 departments.
Who are the political leaders of France?
France is a democratic Republic whereby the Prime minister is the head of government and the President is the head of state.
The current President of France is Nicolas Sarkozy; he has been the President since May 6, 2007. Francois Fillon is the Prime Minister of France.
What currency is used in France?
Euro denoted by the ISO 4217 code EUR is the official currency of France. It is also the official currency of Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain and Portugal.
What is the official language of France?
French is the official language of France spoken by more than 300 million people. Breton, Flemish, Spanish, Catalan, and Basque, Provencal are the other languages spoken in the country. Some dialects of Italian are also used by a few people.
What is the religion of France?
Roman Catholicism is the pre-dominant religion in France. Other eeligions practised in the country include Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism. About one-third population of France does not follow any religion.
What is the economy of France like?
France is one of the leading economic powers in the world. Machinery, automobiles, chemicals, aircraft, electronics equipment, textiles, and food processing are the major industries. Mining is important; coal, iron ore, and bauxite are the major minerals mined. Nuclear energy boosts the national income. Tourism is also a significant part of the economy; the national capital Paris is the most-visited city in the world.
When did France achieve independence?
The history of independence of France spans many wars, the most memeorable one being the French Revolution. The storming of the Bastille in 1789 sparked the revolution with the national cry for Equality, Liberty and Fraternity. The Revolution brought in sweeping reforms in the country; France became a constitutional monarchy. The Bastille Day is celebrated on the 14th of July every day to commemorate this day. France experienced many numerous crises and political and social upheavals in the twentieth century. It had a major role to play in the Second World War and suffered heavy damage and loss. However, it emerged from the ruins of the war and is now one of the leading countries in the world.
