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economics, literature, physiology and medicine. Another famous
Austrian you probably have heard of is Sigmund Freund, one of
the most influential psychoanalysts in the world.
Austrian culture can also be experienced in a more down-to-
earth way through sipping a cup of the Viennese specialty of an
Austrian “cappuccino” called Melange, or a pint of Märzen-style
lager. The Wiener Schnitzel, a dish comprising a thin breaded
and deep-fried cutlet of veal, can also offer comfort to your
stomach in a cold winter. And last but not least, the famous local
deserts: a vast variety of Strudel, dumplings and tasty cakes.
Economy and Development
The Austrian economy is a highly globalised and resilient one.
Other than developed industries like construction, machinery,
vehicles and parts, lumber and wood processing, international
tourism is a most important part of the national economy.
Having a relatively efficient entrepreneurial framework,
openness to global trade and investment is institutionalised and
supported. Together with a strong tradition of reliable property
rights protection, and the transparent and evenly applied legal
system, the country’s economy is ranked the 25th in the 2013
Index of Economic Freedom.
Austria has been part of the European Union since 1995
and adopted the Euro in 1999, allowing it to build better
ties with other European countries. Its capital Vienna also
has an international dimension, as it is the seat of various
international institutions including the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA), the Organisation of Petroleum
Exporting Countries (OPEC), the United Nations Industrial
Development Organisation and the United Nations Office on
Drugs and Crime.
History
In spite of its small size, Austria has a rich and noble history
and used to have strong influence around the world. Once the
centre of power in Europe during the time of Austro-Hungarian
Empire from 1867 to 1918, this great empire included the
entire territories of modern day Austria, Hungary, the Czech
Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and parts of Serbia,
Romania, Ukraine, Poland and Italy. This German-speaking
country was also the centre of the World War I, which was
triggered by the assassination of Austrian Prince Archduke
Franz Ferdinand in 1914. Today, the nation is a parliamentary
representative democracy, and has been a member of the United
Nations since 1955.
Culture
Austria is renowned for its rich culture. The city of Vienna,
a UNESCO world heritage site, is often described as an “open
museum” itself, while the Vienna State Opera is a showcase of
the finest opera, art and architecture.
Vienna is also the capital of classical music and a centre
of musical innovation. Famous Austrian composers Mozart,
Bruckner and Schubert all brought breakthroughs to music in
their times and produced timeless pieces. Today, the Vienna
State Opera and Vienna Boys’ Choir continue to bring the
finest classical music experiences to the world. Under its
elegant façade, present-day Vienna also has a surprisingly
vibrant local rock, techno and pop music scene.
Austrians have also made great contributions to furthering
the knowledge of mankind. The University of Vienna itself
has produced 15 Nobel Laureates in the areas of chemistry,
(
Above)
The Skyline of Vienna.
(
Bottom Left and Right)
Winter and summer alpine scenery.
