North Rhine-Westphalia

North Rhine-Westphalia is the most populous state in Germany, a densely urbanised and industrial region in the west centered on the Rhine and Ruhr rivers. Its capital is Düsseldorf, while Cologne is the largest city. Once the industrial engine of the country, it is now a diverse economic and cultural heartland.

The state spans the heavily populated Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region, one of the largest urban areas in Europe, along with farmland and the forested uplands of the Eifel and Sauerland. The Rhine River is its great artery. The climate is temperate.

North Rhine-Westphalia blends industrial heritage with vibrant cities, famous for the Cologne Cathedral and Carnival, a dense cultural scene of museums and theatres, and a strong football tradition. It is highly multicultural.

Formed after the Second World War, the state grew rich on the coal and steel of the Ruhr, which powered Germany's postwar economic miracle. As heavy industry declined, it diversified into services, media and technology.