Getting to know more about the Cultural and Traditional Diversity of The Germans
Germany is home to over 80 million people – as well as a diverse array of religions, customs, and traditions that make up the rich national psyche. Germany is known for its long and rich history, one that has put it at the forefront of European thought, politics, and art for over 1,000 years. This history has shaped a culture that combines predominantly Christian values with literature, art, philosophy, logic, reason, and, of course, a love of beer and sausages.
German People, Traditions and Facts
The German people face their fair share of stereotypes such as how they like to save their space on a deck chair with a towel whilst on holiday or ensure that public transport (and, well, everything) runs on time. These things should be seen as a testament to their dedication to good planning and time-keeping. Secondly, there is, of course, a bit more to this nation’s populous than this.
Culture of Germany
Considered a country of thinkers, poets, and, nowadays, businesspeople, German culture and people are, to a large extent, all about reason and logic. Germany shares a lot of culture and tradition with neighbouring countries, especially the Germanic-speaking Austria and Switzerland.
An important thing to know about German culture is that residents are expected to respect order and structure. It’s important to be on time, not just for work but for social events too, and to follow rules that are in place for the greater good of everybody who lives there.
German culture has been shaped over thousands of years. It was originally a pagan country, and then an important seat of the Holy Roman Empire. It was also the birthplace of the Protestant reformation. Today, Christians, Catholics, and Muslims coexist happily in Germany
What is German Culture known for?
Some of the key characteristics of German culture that the nation is famously known for include the aforementioned timeliness and order that is apparent in most parts of German society. From an onlooker’s viewpoint, good beer (and Oktoberfest), delicious sausage, hiking, traditional ‘Oom-Pah’ folk music, and holiday-making make-up a key part of the country’s identity.
At closer inspection, there is a larger array of food, drink, history, and leisure activities that are also important aspects of their culture. And on a more serious note, in the modern era, Germany has grown to become a large and stable economy that contributes to global development and peace.
A quick list for getting a grip on the basics:
• Official Language: German (most would consider High German, or Hochdeutsch, to be the most ‘official’ version of the language)
• Population: 82 million
• National Anthem: Nationalhymne
German culture symbols
As a historically Christian country, many cultural symbols have emerged from religion. This includes obvious symbols such as the crucifix and indirect symbols such as the shape of a pretzel (said to represent the Holy Trinity). With a large Muslim population, the Moon and Star of Islam is now also considered an important culture symbol in Germany.
Other symbols of German culture are famous names from the arts, politics, and philosophy such as Goethe, Beethoven, Klee, Kant and Marx (and David Hasselhoff probably belongs on this list, too – quite seriously). Modern culture symbols include both the German flag and the flag of the European Union.
Values in Germany
Generally, Germans tend to balance traditional Christian values with progressive, liberal, and inclusive attitudes
Germany can be considered a modern and advanced society in lots of ways. The nation has some of the most progressive policies regarding gender equality, LGBT rights, and immigration. In recent years policies to allow more immigrants to enter the country have come about as more German people have begun to value the benefits of a diverse multicultural society.
75% of Germany’s population are urban dwellers, and it is in these urban areas where you will find the most liberal attitudes towards homosexuality, gender equality, and refugees.
German people traditionally have strong family values, and even today, it is not uncommon to find several generations of a family all living in or around the same town or city - even in the larger or more transient cities like Berlin - who meet up often and celebrate or go on vacation together. Generally, they are also quite neighbourly, and most will invest in their neighbours by getting to know them and creating a sense of community - again, not just in the smaller towns.
For decades, Germany has shown its commitment to renewable energy and protecting the environment. It has long been at the forefront of pioneering new technology to help in the war against fossil fuels, CO2 emissions, and pollution, and its dedicated garbage recycling system is one of the most thorough in the world. This should certainly be lauded as one of the country’s most impressive values.
When it comes to school and work, it seems to be ingrained in most German people that they should be conscientious and hard-working, which is probably why the country can boast impressive economic development and one of the best education systems in the world.
What are some of Germany’s traditions?
As a Christian country there are many protestant and catholic traditions which are observed and celebrated throughout the year. To make sure you are familiar with Germany’s calendar of national and regional holidays and celebrations, make sure to take a look at our German Holidays and Celebrations page.
Contemporary German traditions include ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’, the equivalent of an English Afternoon tea whereby families and friends stop working to come together in the afternoon for coffee and cake. The annual Munich Beer Festival, known the world over as Oktoberfest, is also a key tradition.
Traditional clothes
Traditional clothing in Germany includes the world-famous Lederhosen, an outfit once worn by rural men, traditionally those undertaking farm work or manual labour. A knee-length set of breeches complete with braces, worn over a short sleeve shirt, Lederhosen are traditionally associated with Bavarian and Tyrolean culture.
For women, traditional German clothes include the Dirndl, a dress made from a bodice, pinafore and full skirt. The shirt underneath is usually low cut and made with short puffy sleeves. Today these clothes are no longer seen on farm workers but on the staff and partygoers at beer festivals.
For further details and queries consult EU helpers.