Bavaria (Germany)

Bavaria is a federal state of Germany. Bavaria has a unique culture, largely because of the state's Catholic majority (52%) and conservative traditions. Bavarians have traditionally been proud of their culture, which includes festivals such as Oktoberfest and elements of Alpine symbolism. The state also has the largest economy of any of the German states, giving it a status as a rather wealthy German region. Bavaria shares international borders with Austria and the Czech Republic as well as with Switzerland. Because all of these countries are part of the Schengen Area, the border is completely open. Some features of the Bavarian culture and mentality are remarkably distinct from the rest of Germany.