AUSTRIA FAST FACTS: POPULATION: 8.1 million (July 2001) CAPITOL: Vienna RELIGIONS: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim LANGUAGES: German NATIONAL HOLIDAY: October 26 (1955); celebrates the passage of the Law on permanent neutrality

The Hofburg (Imperial Palace) was the main quarters of the Habsburgs and remains as the centerpiece of Austrian culture. The Palace encompasses numerous historical landmarks, such as the Augustinian Church and the Royal Chapel, where you can hear the world-renowned Vienna Boy's Choir sing during Sunday mass. In addition, the Museum of Fine Arts displays paintings collected by the Habsburgs throughout the duration of their dynasty.

Even outside of Vienna, Austria is a melting pot of history and culture. The city of Salzburg is home to the Hohensalzburg Castle. Built in the 11th century, the Castle stands 120 meters (roughly 94 feet) above the city. In this structure, you can find archaic torture chambers, staterooms, a tower, and two museums. Other key places to visit include the Museum of Natural History, St. Peter's Abbey, and the Hellbrunn Palace, which contains "trick fountains" and other water-powered figures.

Today, Austria is becoming a key player in world and European affairs, despite its declaration of permanent neutrality in its 1955 State Treaty. In 1995, the country joined the European Union and later adopted the euro monetary system in 1999. These steps are all key in Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel's desire to once again establish Austria as "the heart of Europe."

Find study abroad programs in Austria. Find study abroad scholarships in Austria. ONLINE RESOURCES CIA World Factbook: http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/au.html Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/europe/austria/attractions.htm BBC News Country Profiles: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/europe/country_profiles/newsid_1032000/1032215.stm