1. Monarchies
There are 10 Monarchies in Europe
If you didn’t know before, then now you do. The British Monarchy isn’t the only royal family in the world. As a matter of fact, Denmark has the oldest monarchy in Europe. It was formed in 935 by Viking Kings Gorm the Old and Harold Bluetooth.
The other 8 monarchies that exist within Europe are Spain, Sweden, Norway, The Netherlands, Liechtenstein, Andorra and Belgium.
2. Languages
They Speak More than 200 Languages Throughout Europe
Europe is a melting pot of cultures. With this in mind, different languages exist from every corner of the continent. With more than 200 spoken languages across Europe, only 24 of them are recognized as formal languages. Of these 24 languages, 3 of them are declared procedural languages, which means they are the main languages spoken when doing business for example.
3. World Heritage Sites
The European Continent is Home to More than 400 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are over 400 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Europe, some of these featured locations are bound to be familiar, while others are lesser-known gems we’re sure you’ve never heard of!
4. World´s Smallest Country
Vatican City is the World’s Smallest Country
Not known by many, Vatican City is a country. In fact, it is the smallest country in the world measuring 0.02 miles. Vatican City is known worldwide as the official residence of the Pope. Naturally, this ‘country’ is alsohome to the smallest European population! Vatican City is also quite self-sufficient (to an extent), because it has its own mint to print euros, issuing its own passports as well as having its own media houses, anthem and even stamps.
5. Oldest Country
San Marino is the Oldest ‘Country’ in Europe
While Bulgaria is the oldest European country by name, the Republic of San Marino — an independent state within the confines of Italy — is Europe’s oldest independent state. Its birth date? 301 AD. As other Italian states warred and collectively became part of Italy, San Marino was able to keep its independence throughout the centuries, in large part because its hilly location provided a great advantage.
6. Castles
Most of Europe’s Castles are in the Czech Republic
If you want to see castles, visit European countries. There’s so much fascinating history to be explored and diverse cultures to be uncovered. This amazing continent is truly home to attractions that no other country or continent can stand up to. But were you aware that the Czech Republic had the majority of castles? Sure, Europe boasts some pretty cool historic attractions, but the Czech Republic was home to many royal families, which is why it’s the country with the most castles! All in all, there are 932 castles in the Czech Republic alone. And to top it off, there are approximately 1,187 other ‘stately homes’ within the country.
7. Europe
Europe is Named for a Phoenician Princess
In Greek mythology, Zeus fell hard for Europa, a Phoenician princess. Disguising himself as a bull to lure her away, he carried her off to sea on his back, taking her to the island of Crete.
The famed 1747 painting of “The Rape of Phoenicia” by Francois Boucher hangs in the Louvre in Paris.
Fun fact indeed!
These are only some facts about Europe. You don´t need to make a list to remember, just check our website sikhna.eu and start right away learning interesting things about the EU.
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