Europe

Europe is one of the smallest continents in the world, but rich in history, culture and diverse landscapes. It is located in the northern hemisphere and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Arctic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Europe is home to many peoples and languages, where different traditions and cultural influences intermingle. The continent is known for its historical sites such as ancient ruins, medieval castles and modern architecture. Economically, Europe is highly developed, with major industrial, technological and financial centres. From the majestic Alps, to green forests and fertile plains, to beautiful coastlines, Europe's nature offers a unique place to explore.

Who borders Europe

Europe shares a border with Asia to the east, with the geographical boundary often including the Ural Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. To the south, Europe is separated from Africa by the Mediterranean Sea. To the north it is bounded by the Arctic Ocean, while to the west it is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Europe and America are separated by the Atlantic Ocean, with Greenland, an autonomous part of Denmark, being the nearest point.

Number of countries in Europe

There are 44 recognised sovereign states in Europe. This number includes a variety of countries with rich histories and cultures, from large nations such as Germany, France and Italy, to smaller states such as Andorra, Malta and San Marino. This list may vary slightly depending on political and geographical definitions, but 44 is the generally accepted number of European countries.