Due to its central position in Europe, the fact is, Germany is deemed as a transportation center and with the Autobahn being the most famous of all Germany 's motorways - weighing in as the third largest length in the world with very little speed limits on most roads many use Germany as a gateway to somewhere else. There is also the fact that Germany is by larger the biggest economical driver in Europe and is politically central to all decisions made as regards European direction.
Facts You Might Not Know?
- The highly prestigious Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize is awarded to ten scientists and academics each year. It is one of the highest research prizes in the world, with a maximum of €2.5 million per award!
- Secondary education splits students into four types of schools: the Gymnasium takes on the most gifted children, preparing students for university (attendance is usually 8 or 9 years, but depends on the State); the Realschule encompasses a broader range for intermediary students, lasting six years; the Hauptschule focuses on vocational education, and the Gesamtschule (comprehensive school) combines the three other school's approaches towards education.
Capital: Berlin
Government: Federal Republic
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Area: 357,021 sq km
Population: 82,400,996 (July 2007 est.)
Language: German
Calling Code: +49
Internet TLD: .de
Time Zone: UTC +1