France Country File: Facts and Figures
Understand the basics of France's geography, history, economy and politics at a glance...
France is the largest country in western Europe. Officially known as the French Republic, it is made up of Metropolitan France situated in Europe, and a number of overseas territories and islands in the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. These are referred to as Départements et Régions d'Outre-Mer - Collectivités d'Outre-Mer (DROM-COM).
Paris is the capital of France, which is divided into départements, each of which has a capital referred to as chef-lieu.
French is the official language, although there are a number of regional languages spoken and recognised to a certain extent. These include Tahitian, Gallo, Catalan, Corsican and Breton.
The resident population of France is approximately 62.5 million.
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