Poland Map

Poland is a country in Central Europe, bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and an exclave of Russia called Kaliningrad Oblast. Poland also has borders along the Baltic Sea. Poland is the ninth largest country in Europe, with an area of 312,679 square kilometers (120,726 square miles). The capital and largest city of Poland is Warsaw.

Poland is divided into sixteen voivodeships, or provinces, each with one or two capital cities. The provinces of Poland are Greater Poland, Kuyavian-Pomeranian, Lesser Poland, Lodz, Lower Silesian, Lublin, Lubusz, Masovian, Opole, Podlaskie, Pomeranian, Silesian, Subcarpathian, Holy Cross, Warmian-Masurian, and West Pomeranian.

Poland has a population of 38,116,000 people. The official language of Poland is Polish, a Slavic language. Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion in Poland, though prior to World War II, there was more diversity in religions, including a Protestant majority, and minorities of Jews and Orthodox Christians. Poland has a vibrant culture and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the country.

The Kingdom of Poland was established in 1025, joining Lithuania and becoming the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1569, until 1795 when it disintegrated and was divided by other kingdoms. The Kingdom of Prussia, Austria, and the Russian Empire took control of parts of Poland, until it gained independence again in 1918. Poland was invaded by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union during World War II, becoming part of the Soviet Union in 1944, and facing severe devastation. Poland revolted against its communist government in the Revolutions of 1989, and became a democratic nation.

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Last Updated On : February 13, 2013


Last Updated On : January 17, 2013