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Andorra

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The principality of Andorra, known better simply as Andorra, is one of the smallest countries in the world. It is located in southwestern Europe and borders France and Spain. In terms of its size, about 181 square miles, it ranks number 192 out of 233 recognized countries. With a population of almost 90,000 people, it is smaller than most mid-sized cities. The people of Andorra enjoy a healthy lifestyle and the average life span is the second highest in the world at 82 years.

Though Andorra has been an independent country since 1278, France and Spain both share sovereignty over it. It has not yet joined the European Union, but it does use the Euro as its official currency. The capital is the city of Andorra la Vella. The major industries of Andorra are furniture making and exporting and tourism. More than 10 million tourists visit the tiny country each year.

Catalan is the national language, though many languages are spoken in the country because of its diverse cultural makeup. There are more French, Spanish and Portuguese people in Andorra than there are native-born Andorrans. As a result, French and Spanish are both commonly spoken in the country. About 90 percent of the people of Andorra are Roman Catholic. There are also small groups of Muslims, Hindus and Protestants.

Andorra is located in the Pyranees mountains and features a rugged, natural terrain. The peaks of Andorra reach as high as 9,652 feet and as low as 2,756 feet. The country also features three small valleys and a stream that flows across the border and into Spain.

Politically, the president of France and Spain's Bishop of Urgell co-rule Andorra along with an Andorran prime minster. The prime minster is the head of the Andorran government while the General Council is the parliamentary body. The president of France and the Bishop of Urgell act as military protectors of the country. Andorra does not have its own military.