Steiermark

Steiermark, known in English as Styria, is a state of Austria located in the southeast of the country. It borders Upper Austria and Lower Austria to the north, Burgenland to the east, Carinthia to the south, and Slovenia to the southwest. Its capital and largest city is Graz. The population is around 1.2 million, and the area covers about 16,400 square kilometers.

The region features diverse scenery, from the Northern Limestone Alps in the Gesäuse and Schladming-Dachstein areas to the hilly wine country of Südsteiermark and the central Styrian Basin. Notable mountains include the Hochschwab and Schöckl. Gesäuse National Park protects part of the alpine wilderness in the north. Several rivers traverse the region, supporting agriculture and settlements.

Steiermark has a mixed economy with strong forestry, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. It is known as the Green Heart of Austria for its forests and farmland. The wine country in southern and western Styria produces varieties such as Welschriesling and Sauvignon Blanc, and the region is famous for Schilcher rosé and pumpkin seed oil. The economy also includes automotive and mechanical engineering, energy production, and research institutions.

Graz, a university city with historical and modern character, hosts the University of Graz, Graz University of Technology, and other educational institutions. The historic town of Graz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated 1999) and features landmarks such as the Schloßberg and Uhrturm. Gesäuse National Park and the Schladming-Dachstein region are notable outdoor destinations.