France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north; the. Discover France. Explore France facts, culture, history & comprehensive country profile with maps, statistics & research resources for students & travelers. Description: This map shows governmental boundaries of countries; regions, regions capitals and major cities in France. France was divided into a German occupation zone in the north, an Italian occupation zone and an unoccupied territory, the rest of France, which consisted of southern France and the French empire. Facts about France for kids: Learn all about France, with facts about French history, people, politics, culture and geography, including a map of France. The European Union (EU), of which France is one of the founding members, is a priority of French foreign policy. France is the host country of the Council of Europe: the leading organisation defending human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Europe. Discover comprehensive geographic, demographic and strategic intelligence for France, featuring detailed insights into population statistics, territorial measurements, economic indicators, timezone data and geopolitical positioning. France, a country of northwestern Europe, is historically and culturally among the most important countries in the Western world. It has also played a highly significant role in international affairs for centuries. In spring, France reveals one of its most beautiful sides. Outdoor cafés fill up, parks and gardens come into bloom, and the countryside invites you to take a leisurely stroll, from the coast to the mountains. Breaking news and world news from France 24 on Business, Sports, Culture. Video news. News from the US, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, Middle East, America.