SAARLAND
WELCOME TO SAARLAND
State Overview
Saarbrücken
2,570 km2
996,000
German
Popular
Geography and Tourist Attractions
Information about the state's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
Saarschleife
Völklinger Hütte
Saarbrücken
Political
Economy and Government
Saarland has a diversified economy, with a mix of industrial, service, and tourism sectors. It is known for its automotive and steel industries, with major companies like Ford, Bosch, and Dillinger Hütte having a presence in the region. The service sector is also significant, with a focus on research and development, especially in the fields of energy and environmental technology. Saarland is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions like the Saarschleife and Völklinger Hütte bringing in visitors from around the world.
Saarland is one of the 16 states of Germany, with a parliamentary system of government. The state parliament is known as the Landtag, and is made up of 51 members who are elected every five years. The head of government is the Minister President, who is appointed by the Landtag and serves as the head of the state government. The current Minister President of Saarland is Tobias Hans, who has been in office since 2018. The state also has representation in the federal government of Germany, with two members in the Bundestag and three members in the Bundesrat.
History
History and Culture
Saarland has a rich history that spans many centuries. It was originally part of the Roman Empire, and later became a center of the Celtic culture. During the Middle Ages, it was ruled by various feudal lords and became part of the Holy Roman Empire. In the 20th century, Saarland was the site of various conflicts, including the Franco-Prussian War and World War II. Following the war, it became a French protectorate and then a state of West Germany in 1957.
Saarland has a distinct culture that reflects its unique history and geography. The region is known for its food and drink, including traditional dishes like Schwenker (grilled pork) and Saarländischer Lyoner (sausage). The Saarland dialect is also widely spoken, and has its own distinct vocabulary and pronunciation. In terms of cultural events, Saarland hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Saarspektakel music festival and the Saarbrücken Christmas Market. The state also has a strong tradition of arts and crafts, with many local artisans creating pottery, textiles, and other handmade items.