The federal state of Thuringia lies in the middle of Germany and is with about 2.2 million inhabitants and a surface area of 16,000 square kilometres one of Germany’s smaller federal states. Due to its central location this federal state borders other European countries. Since 1993 Thuringia is officially called Free State.

Medieval churches, castles and monasteries lure visitors for sightseeing while animal parks and garden parks take lovers of nature under its spell. Friends of sports will enjoy the numerous hiking trails and winter sport centres. Thermal baths and adventure pools take care of your relaxation.

Scenery in Thuringia is varied. In the north is the highest low mountain range of Germany, the Harz. In southeast lies the valley of river Helme. In the northwest the scenery is partial hill woodland. In the middle of the state lies the Thuringian basin which is one of the oldest man-made landscapes of Germany. In the south is the Thuringian forest and in the west another low mountain range, the Rhön.

Particularly in the Thuringian forest are numerous areas for tourists with hiking trails and also the known long distance trail named "Rennsteig". During winter, the winter sports centre in Oberhof offers alpine slopes and cross country ski slopes. In summer the Thuringian sea makes beat one’s heart faster with many water sport activities in the biggest reservoir region of Germany. But also campers, anglers and cyclists will be pleased by what Thuringia has to offer.

In Thuringia has prevailed a varied culture. Many festivals and customs invite the visitor to join. The city of Weimar was included with 11 sites and Wartburg near Eisenach in UNESCO’s world cultural heritage list.

Extensive cultural life takes place in the major towns of Thuringia. Among the best known towns are capital Erfurt, European cultural capital of Weimar and university town of Jena.

Facts:  Free State of Thuringia

Capital: Erfurt

Major towns: Jena, Gera, Weimar

 Inhabitants: 2,162 million

 Surface: 16.172 sq. km

More information (also in Netherlands): http://www.thuringia-tourism.com/travel-hotel-holiday-tour/index.html

Photo: Weimar, Anton Ivanov/Shutterstock