Metropolitan France
Metropolitan France refers to the part of France located in Europe, excluding its overseas regions and territories. It is the main part of the country, comprising the European continental landmass and the island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea.
Geography
Metropolitan France covers an area of approximately 551,695 square kilometers, making it the largest country in the European Union by area when considering only its European territory. It is bordered by:
- Belgium and Luxembourg to the north
- Germany and Switzerland to the east
- Italy and Monaco to the southeast
- Spain to the southwest
- Andorra to the south
- The Atlantic Ocean to the west
- The Mediterranean Sea to the south
- The English Channel to the north
History
The history of Metropolitan France can be traced back to:
- The Gaul, where Celtic tribes lived before the Roman conquest.
- The Roman period when it was part of Roman Gaul, which later evolved into the Frankish Kingdom.
- The Carolingian Empire, which eventually fragmented into various states, one of which became the Kingdom of France.
- The medieval period saw the consolidation of the French monarchy, which was significantly strengthened under figures like Philip II and Louis IX.
- During the French Revolution, France saw the establishment of the First French Republic in 1792.
- Through the 19th and 20th centuries, France went through periods of empire, republics, and world wars, shaping its modern borders and identity.
Political Structure
Metropolitan France is divided into 13 regions, which are further subdivided into departments, arrondissements, cantons, and communes. The political structure follows the general framework of:
- A centralized state with a President as the head of state.
- A Prime Minister who heads the government.
- Two houses of Parliament: the Senate and the National Assembly.
Culture and Demographics
Metropolitan France is known for its:
- Rich cultural heritage, including art, literature, philosophy, and gastronomy.
- Paris, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world.
- A diverse population with significant regional variations in language, cuisine, and traditions.
Economy
The economy of Metropolitan France is one of the largest in the world, characterized by:
- A highly developed and market-oriented economy with sectors like agriculture, industry, and services.
- High GDP per capita.
- France's role in the Eurozone.
External Links
- INSEE - The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies
- France.fr - Official website of France
- France Diplomatie - French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
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