Why European Capitals Need Vowels Quiz

Answer: Riga

With a population of approx. 700,000 people, Riga is the capital and largest city of the beautiful nation of Latvia. It contains one third of the country's population. The city lies at the mouth of the Daugava River and is one of the most important financial, commercial and industrial centers of the Baltic area. Important exports of this city include wood products and pharmaceuticals. Tourism is also an important industry in this picturesque city known for its Art Nouveau architecture.

Answer: Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the northernmost national capital city in the world. With a population of only 200,000 it is the center of most economic and legislative activity in the country. This unique city is believed to be the first permanent settlement on Iceland and was established around 870 AD. Important industries in the area include sulphur mining, fishing and shipbuilding.

Answer: Amsterdam

Capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam derives its name from being located at a dam on the Amstel river. Originally a small fishing village, founded in the 12th century, Amsterdam has grown into a major cultural center and is a leading center for finance and diamonds. Tourism is a major industry in this scenic city known for its red light district, historic canals and multiple art museums.

Answer: Vaduz

Capital of the small country of Liechtenstein, Vaduz has a population of about 5,000 people and is located on the lovely Rhine River. The most popular tourist attraction is possibly the Vaduz Castle which sits in the center of the city atop a high hill. Despite the fact that this quaint city does not have an airport nor railway station, tourism is an important part of its economy.

Answer: Tirana

Tirana is the largest city as well as the capital of Albania. Modern Tirana was founded in 1614 by Sulejman Pasha and became the country's capital in 1920 a few years after the end of World War I. The city is located in an area that has been populated for at least 20,000 years and there were other cities built in the area that are no longer there. Tirana is a favorite location for archaeologists to visit as it boasts ruins that are over 2,000 years old.

Answer: Sarajevo

Nestled in a beautiful valley, and surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo is located in one of the most picturesque locations in Europe. It is one of the few large cities that can boast religious diversity as well as cultural diversity coexisting for centuries.

It has been given the nickname "The Jerusalem of Europe". Much of the city has been damaged by the Bosnian War for independence and is now engaged in the long term process of post-war reconstruction. There is much to see and do, and there is not doubt that this is a city that is worthy of your bucket list.

Answer: Yerevan

Yerevan is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities on the planet as well as being the capital city of Armenia. It became the capital city in 1918 and is the thirteenth capital city in the history of the country. The Hrazdan River flows through this ancient city and it is surrounded on three sides by mountains.

The city is home to multiple museums as well as the Matenadaran Library of Ancient Manuscripts.

Answer: Skopje

Skopje is home to about one third of the population of Macedonia. The area has been inhabited for at least 6,000 years and the ruins of Neolithic settlements are located in and around the city. Located on the Vardar River, this ancient city is home to timber, leather, chemical and metal-processing industries. War, and natural disasters have taken their toll on this city which is in the process of rebuilding.

There are many museums, restaurants and ancient ruins to be toured on a visit to this lovely city.

Answer: Oslo

Oslo, Norway was founded around 1048 and has been an important city ever since. It was almost completely destroyed in a fire in 1624 and was completely rebuilt and given the name Christiania. The name Oslo was re-adopted in 1925. A high quality of life and high employment levels have made Oslo a wonderful city to live in for over a century.

It is also one of the most expensive cities to live or vacation in. Multiple open parks, protected woody areas, many museums, and beautiful architecture make Oslo a popular place to visit.

Answer: Copenhagen

Copenhagen, in Denmark, is a beautiful city that has been included in most lists involving cities with the best quality of life. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, cleanliness, and low crime rate. The city has been around since the days of the Vikings and has always been an important center of commerce with an excellent harbor.

The name of the city is derived from 'kopmannaehafn' a term meaning 'merchants harbour'.