Liechtenstein
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Western Europe
- Capital
- Vaduz
- Population
- 40,000 (2024)
- Area
- 160 km²
- Languages
- German
- Currency
- Swiss franc (CHF)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +423
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Before you go
Overview
The Principality of Liechtenstein is a German-speaking country located at the Alps and southwest Central Europe. It’s the fourth smallest country in Europe and six smallest in the world.
The country recorded a population of 38,749 in 2020 and covers an area of 160 km2.
Its capital city is Vaduz which is home to the royal family residence palace.
Other major towns are Schaan, Triesenberg and Balzers.
The Capital – Vaduz.
History
Liechtenstein acquired its current name and became a self-governing principality of the Holy Roman Empire in 1719. It was a member of German Confederation from 1815 to 1866. It gained full independence in 1866.
The country was under the Australian monarchy until 1919 when Switzerland replaced Austria by representing Liechtenstein in its foreign affairs.
It joined NATO in 1990.
Food & culture
The country’s culture is grounded on the Alemannic culture and that of the Catholic Church.
The major crops grown in the country are fruits such as apples, berries, grapes and pears.
The common dishes include asparagus, hafalaab, kasknopfl, liver, muesli, pastries and bread.
Wildlife
The most common wildlife are red deer, roe deer, chamois, foxes, badgers, weasels, stoats, polecats, marmots and pheasants.
Festivals & events
The major celebrated festivals are Monster concert, Operettas in Vaduz, Treisenburg, Film Festival and the National Day of Liechtenstein.
Things to see
People visit Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, a state museum of modern and contemporary art located in Vaduz.
There is also the Vaduz castle built during the 12th century, which is the residence to the royal family.
Another spectacular thing to see is the Burg Gutenberg, a castle built on the hill giving a good scene from the valley.
Interesting facts
Liechtenstein is one of the world’s only two landlocked countries by landlocked countries besides Uzbekistan in Asia. It is landlocked by Switzerland and Austria.
The country also has the highest per capita GDP in the world along with Monaco and Qatar.
The national Church is the Roman Catholic Church as stated by the constitution.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Liechtenstein
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.