DK People & Places: Western Europe

Every year, millions of tourists travel to the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea to enjoy the sunny climate, warm waters, and beautiful scenery. Tourism has led to heavy development along many parts of the coast, such as the Algarve in Portugal, the Costa del Sol in Spain, and the Riviera in Italy and France.

Italian farmers grow lots of cereals, fruit, vegetables, and vines. Agriculture is very important to Italy’s economy and, although most farms are small and family-run, the country is a leading producer of oranges, lemons, wine, olives, and olive oil. The best farming region lies in the north, in the flat, fertile valley of the Po River. Higher land offers pasture for cows and sheep, whose milk makes delicious cheeses.

A range of climates and landscapes enable France, Western Europe’s largest country, to produce many different foods, including wheat, sunflowers, olives, grapes, and dairy products. These foods help to make the regional dishes, cheeses, and wines for which France is famous. The country’s vineyards produce a quarter of all the world’s wine.

Switzerland’s is one of the world’s richest countries thanks to a successful financial industry. The country has neutral status and has enjoyed peace and political stability for nearly 200 years, partly due to its refusal to take part in wars since 1915. This fact, combined with low taxes, and strict secrecy laws, has made Switzerland a major banking center.

Malta has an important port because the island lies on major trade shipping routes between Europe and Africa. In the past, Malta’s strategic position has led to invasions by Roman, Arab, French, Turkish, Spanish, and British forces, who have all wanted to control the island. Independent since 1964, Malta’s main income comes from its port facilities and tourist industry.

Vatican City, situated in the heart of Italy’s capital, Rome, is a state in its own right, yet it is no larger than the size of a city park. This tiny state is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the home of the Pope, who is also head of state. The population of Vatican City numbers under 1,000 people, but nevertheless, they have their own flag, national anthem, stamps, and radio station.