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Saxony-Anhalt is located in central northern and central Germany and has a varied landscape. Large parts of the north and east are relatively flat and are characterized by agricultural plains. The Magdeburg Börde is particularly fertile and is one of Germany's most important arable farming regions. The Elbe crosses the federal state from south to north and, together with the Saale, the Unstrut and other rivers, shapes large parts of the landscape. In the south and southwest, the Harz Mountains rise with extensive forests, valleys and mountain landscapes. Brocken, at 1,141 meters, is the highest mountain in Saxony-Anhalt and also the highest elevation in the Harz Mountains. In the east of the state, parts of the Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve are located, with valuable floodplain landscapes along the Elbe.

The territory of present-day Saxony-Anhalt was already an important region within the Holy Roman Empire during the Middle Ages. Its history is closely connected with the margraviates and principalities of the region, as well as with the former territories of Anhalt, Magdeburg and Electoral Saxony. The Reformation played an outstanding role in the region. Martin Luther worked in Wittenberg, where he published his famous 95 Theses in 1517. Wittenberg consequently became one of the most important historic sites of the Reformation. In the 19th century, a large part of present-day Saxony-Anhalt belonged to Prussia. After the Second World War, Saxony-Anhalt was established as a state in 1947 in the Soviet occupation zone. In 1952, the state was dissolved in East Germany and its territory was divided among several districts. Following German reunification, Saxony-Anhalt was re-established as a federal state in 1990.

Saxony-Anhalt has around 2.1 million inhabitants. A large proportion of the population lives in the larger cities and their surrounding areas, while extensive parts of the state are characterized by smaller towns, municipalities and rural areas. Magdeburg is the state capital and is located on the Elbe. The city has a long history and is particularly known for Magdeburg Cathedral. Halle (Saale) is the largest city in the state and an important center for science, education, culture and the economy. Other significant cities include Dessau-Roßlau, Wittenberg, Halberstadt, Quedlinburg, Stendal, Merseburg and Naumburg. Quedlinburg, Wittenberg and Naumburg are particularly important for their historical and cultural heritage.

The economy of Saxony-Anhalt is characterized by industry, agriculture, chemicals, mechanical engineering, food production and logistics. A particularly important role is played by the chemical triangle in the south of the state around Leuna, Schkopau and Bitterfeld-Wolfen, where major industrial and chemical production sites are located. Agriculture is also highly significant because of the fertile soils of the Magdeburg Börde. Important crops include cereals, sugar beets and other agricultural products. In addition, modern sectors such as renewable energy, logistics and services have developed. The state's position along important German transport routes and its proximity to major economic regions support logistics in particular. Tourism is also an important economic factor, especially in the Harz Mountains and in the historic cities and cultural landscapes of the state.

Saxony-Anhalt has diverse natural landscapes ranging from the floodplains of the Elbe to the low mountain landscapes of the Harz. The Elbe floodplains are particularly important and are characterized by flood areas, old river channels, wetlands and forests. The Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve protects large parts of this valuable river landscape and provides habitats for numerous animal and plant species. The Harz also contains extensive forests, mountain meadows and natural valleys. Various nature parks and protected areas are also located in the north and east of the state. They help preserve valuable landscapes and habitats while also providing opportunities for recreation and nature-based tourism. The Harz National Park is also partly located in Saxony-Anhalt. It protects large areas of the natural mountain landscape around Brocken and is one of the region's most important protected areas.

Saxony-Anhalt has an exceptionally rich cultural and historical heritage. Particularly important are the sites associated with the Reformation, the Bauhaus and the Middle Ages. Wittenberg is closely associated with Martin Luther and the Reformation. The Luther Memorials in Wittenberg are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dessau is home to Bauhaus Dessau, which is internationally known for its architecture and its importance to modern design. Quedlinburg, with its historic old town, half-timbered houses and collegiate church, is one of Germany's most significant medieval towns. Naumburg Cathedral is also an outstanding cultural monument and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other well-known attractions include Magdeburg Cathedral, the castles and fortresses of the Harz, the Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz and the historic city of Merseburg. Together with the Reformation sites, Bauhaus buildings and landscapes of the Harz, these places make Saxony-Anhalt an important cultural and travel destination.