Europe is the world’s second-smallest continent, consisting of 47 countries and assorted dependencies and territories. Geographically, Europe is not considered a continent but part of the peninsula of Euroasia, which includes all of Europe and Asia. Europe is the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia bordered to the north by the Arctic Ocean, to the west by the Atlantic Ocean, to the south by the Mediterranean Sea, to the southeast by the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, and to the east by the Ural Mountains, Ural river, and the Caspian Sea, which serves as demarcation from Asia.
Europeans have been very influential spreading their culture all over the world with the legacy of colonialism. It is very rich in natural wonders and man-made marvels, as reflected in picturesque snow-capped mountains, magnificent lakes and beaches, lush green forests and amazing architectural structures built in detail and passion from ancient, medieval and Rennaisance to modern times. Europe is home to some of the most glorious Classical, Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque edifices in the world such as the famous Acropolis, Colloseum, Durham Cathedral, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Louvre, British Opera House, and the Brandenburg Gate.
Europe also offers much in terms of technology, science, art, architecture, language and culture. The origins of Western democratic and individualistic culture are often attributed to Europe, particular to Ancient Greece, though numerous other distinct influences, in particular Christianity, can also be credited to Europe. The Renaissance and the New Monarchs started a period of discoveries, explorations and an increase in scientific knowledge. In the 1400s, Portugal opened the age of discoveries followed by Spain. France later joined in as well as Netherlands and England in building large colonial empires in Africa, the Americas and Asia. The ideas of democracy were also born in Europe, particularly with the French. Industrialization and modernization was born in Great Britain.
But there is more to Europe than meets the mind and can only be experienced first-hand. From among these are the friendly and welcoming Europeans, who, despite the geographical and cultural boundaries, never ceases to astonish visitors.