Liechtenstein

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.

Annual events/ celebrations/ festivals

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 12^th 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.

Borders

Liechtenstein is bordered on the west and south by Switzerland and the east and north by Austria.