Overview of Hungary

Profile

Occupying most of the Carpathian Basin, a plains nation traversed by the Danube and Tisza Rivers. Capital Budapest is called the 'Pearl of the Danube,' with such concentration of historic buildings that the entire city is registered as World Heritage. While an EU member state, maintains unique language and culture, with distinctive food culture including wine and paprika. Known for high education levels and numerous scientific achievements, economy supported by tourism, manufacturing, and IT.

Official name: Hungary
Common name: Hungary
Numeric code: 348
Alpha-3 code: HUN
Alpha-2 code: HU
Population: 9.6 million (2023)
Population density: 103/km2
Primary languages: Hungarian
Major religions: Catholicism, Calvinism, Lutheranism
National anthem: Himnusz (Hymn)
Calling code: +36
Internet TLD: .hu

History

Traces origins to Kingdom of Hungary founded in 1000, experienced Austria-Hungary Empire and socialist era before democratizing in 1989.

Magyar nation-state established late 10th century, with Stephen I crowned as Christian kingdom in 1000. Medieval period saw Mongol and Ottoman invasions; 19th century formed Dual Monarchy compromising with Austria. Lost significant territory after WWI defeat, became socialist state under Soviet influence post-WWII. Experienced 1956 uprising, then 1989 regime change birthed Third Republic. Joined NATO 1999, EU 2004.

Geography & climate

Basin surrounded by Carpathian Mountains, majority of territory plains. Danube River runs north to south, Tisza River traverses eastern region, with lakes including Balaton scattered throughout.

Temperate continental climate

Area: Europe / 93030 km²
Capital: Budapest
Largest city: Budapest
Coastal status: No
Major lakes: Lake Balaton, Lake Velence, Lake Tisza, Lake Hévíz
Bordering countries: Austria, Slovenia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia

Natural resources

Lignite, Bauxite, Natural gas, Crude oil, Geothermal/hot spring water, Forest resources, Fertile black soil, Solar power, Danube water transport, Agricultural paprika

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Forint (HUF)

GDP (nominal): 190 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 400 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Hungarian

Time zone: Central European Time, Central European Summer Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Magyars, Roma, Hungarian Germans, Slovaks, Romanians, Serbs, Croats, Ukrainians, Slovenes

Life expectancy

76.8 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Football, Water polo, Handball, Fencing, Canoe/Kayak, Ice hockey