France

France is one of Europe's largest and most influential countries, both geographically and culturally. It is located in Western Europe and borders several countries, including Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. Its capital is Paris, a world-famous city known for its fashion, art and architecture. France has a very diverse nature. In the south there is the sunny French Riviera and the Mediterranean coast, while in the east the Alps offer snow-capped mountains and ski resorts. The western part borders the Atlantic Ocean and has a milder coastal climate. The inland consists of fertile plains, vineyards and picturesque villages. France has around 67 million inhabitants. The official language is French, which is also one of the most spoken languages in the world. The country is known for its pride in its language and culture, and has a long tradition of literature, philosophy and art. French culture is deeply rooted in art, fashion, architecture and above all – food. The French are proud of their cuisine, which is known for dishes such as croissants, baguettes, cheese and wine. Each region has its own specialties. France is also home to many world-famous museums, such as the Louvre in Paris, and architectural masterpieces such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame.