Liechtenstein

Overview

Liechtenstein is a landlocked Alpine microstate in Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland, covering an area of only about 160 square kilometers, making it the sixth-smallest country in the world. The country is a constitutional monarchy, a principality ruled by the House of Liechtenstein, which has existed in its current form since 1719, and as a former principality of the Holy Roman Empire, it is the only country to have been formed entirely within the former empire's territory and to have survived as an independent state. The official language is German, and the population numbers only about 40,000, one of the lowest of any country in the world. The country maintains a close economic and currency union with Switzerland, using the Swiss franc as its official currency.

Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the House of Liechtenstein, rises on a hilltop above the capital, Vaduz, though it is not open to the public inside, as the princely family still resides there. Vaduz's town center, a relatively small capital, offers cultural programs through museums including the Liechtenstein National Museum and the Kunstmuseum (Art Museum). The Vaduz-Triesen wine region, owned in part by the princely family itself, showcases the country's modest but traditional winemaking culture. Balzers Castle, a medieval fortress in the southern part of the country, is another site preserving the region's historical heritage.

The eastern part of Liechtenstein is covered by the Alps, with Grauspitz, the country's highest peak at about 2,599 meters, offering excellent terrain for hiking in summer and skiing in winter at the Malbun resort. The Liechtenstein Panorama Trail, crossing the entire country, can be completed in a few days and offers insight into the country's varied mountain and valley landscapes. The Rhine River, forming Liechtenstein's western border, is lined with cycling and walking paths, offering a pleasant escape along the river plains. Local cuisine blends Austrian and Swiss influences, with Käsknöpfle, a cheese-topped dumpling dish, as a signature item, traditionally served with fried onions.