France is the largest state in all of Western Europe. It borders on eight other countries - these are Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Andorra, Luxembourg, as well as Monaco. This country is one of the most picturesque and attractive for tourists. What are its geographical features, climate and total area?
Geographical position
In appearance, the territory of France resembles an almost regular hexagon. Its advantageous position was noted by ancient historians and cartographers. For example, the Greek historian Strabo wrote that "the hand of providence paved rivers, erected mountains, brought sea coasts closer to create the best place on earth." Many lands belong to the overseas territories of France: these are islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, St. Helena in the Atlantic, Antarctic territories, departments of Guadeloupe, Martinique, Reunion and French Guiana, communities of Mayotte, Saint-Martin, overseas territory of New Caledonia and many others. The total area of France, together with these possessions, is 674,685 square meters. km
French economy
The French economy is directly affected by geographic factors. Firstly, it borders with the countries of the European Union, which is a definite plus. Secondly, the country has access to the sea, which makes it possible to use low-cost air transport for flights and communication with other states.
Geography
Square in France km is 551,500 square meters. km The lowest point in the country is the Rhone Delta. It is located 2 m below sea level. The highest is Mount Mont Blanc with a height of 4810 m. If you count along with the overseas territories, then the area of France in square. km will be 674 685 square meters. km The relief of France is diverse, but most of the territory is flat.
The Pyrenees mountain range extends along the French border with Spain. During the ice age, the mountains were not subjected to severe glaciation. Therefore, there is no way to find large glaciers, valleys and lakes, which are more characteristic of the Alps. The passes from Spain to France are of considerable difficulty due to their inaccessibility and the height of the mountains. The communication between France and Spain is carried out mainly through narrow passages between the mountain ranges, as well as via sea lanes in the west and east.
Alpine mountains are more picturesque. Their height reaches 4 thousand meters. Especially grandiose landscapes await guests of the country in the Savoy Alps. These are the northern ranges of the Alps, decorated with dazzling white snow caps. The rocky massifs are separated by picturesque valleys - another natural attraction of the country.
The main rivers of the country are the Loire, Seine, Rhone and Garonne. They are the largest, but on the whole, France is covered by a river network. In total, the country has several dozen river arteries. Shipping is one of the most economical and affordable modes of transport. For example, active trade with neighboring Germany is conducted along the Rhine River. Rivers are of great importance for the agricultural industry in the south of the country. A large number of vineyards grow here, and natural rainfall would not be enough for their irrigation.
Climate
The country has four types of climate. It is a temperate marine prevailing in the western regions; continental inland; mountainous on the hills; Mediterranean along the sea coast. In general, all types are life-friendly. Mild winters and relatively mild summers are typical of Paris, Nice, Normandy and Brittany.
Forests and forestry in France
In km2, the area of France covered with forests is 130,220 km 2 . Thus, the country's forest cover is about 24%. In the western part, vegetation is mainly represented by artificially planted forests of coastal pine (this breed occupies about 13% of the entire area of France). In the center of the country, the main forest species are oaks and beeches.
Normandy is characterized by pine, chestnut and fir thickets. In areas of valleys, the most popular tree is poplar. Square in France km., occupied by this breed, is more than 1 thousand square meters. km Pine and fir species prevail in the mountains. Forestry is well developed in France. Many of the planted forests are intended specifically for creating recreation areas. Healthy pine trees occupy large areas here. Square in France km, occupied by conifers, is about 10 thousand square meters. km In the forests there are various representatives of the fauna - deer, foxes, wild boars, roe deer, a large number of birds.
Population of the country
The population of France is about 66.9 million people. The vast majority are residents of its continental part. In terms of population, the country is located on the 20th place among the UN countries. What is the area of France per inhabitant? This figure is 8.62 square meters. m. For one square. there are 116 people here.
National parks
There are nine reserves in France. They are located both in its European territory and in overseas regions. More than 7 million people visit them annually. Every decade, the territory of regional natural parks is reviewed - it can increase or decrease. Fortunately, the former is more likely to happen in France.