The Saar region of Germany is a coal-rich area located in the southwestern part of the country. It is bordered by France, Luxembourg and the German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Rheinland-Pfalz. The region has been an important source of coal since the 19th century, and it remains an important economic resource for Germany today. The Saar region is also known for its steel industry, which has been a major contributor to the German economy since the 1950s.