A Double-Landlocked Alpine Microstate
Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly-landlocked countries in the world — surrounded entirely by landlocked countries (Switzerland and Austria; the other is Uzbekistan). The country covers just 160 km² and has 40,000 residents, making it the sixth-smallest country in the world.
Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy headed by the Prince of Liechtenstein, one of the wealthiest monarchs in Europe (the princely family owns one of the world’s largest private art collections). The country uses the Swiss franc, shares its customs union with Switzerland, but is a member of the European Economic Area (not the EU).
A Brief History
Liechtenstein was founded as an imperial immediacy in 1719 by the Princely House of Liechtenstein, which had been buying up territory in the Holy Roman Empire. The principality has been independent continuously since then, surviving the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars due to neutrality.
Geography and Climate
Liechtenstein covers 160 km² in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria, along the Rhine River. The country has 11 municipalities.
Culture, Language and Religion
German is official (with Alemannic dialect). Religion: approximately 72% Catholic.
The Economy
Liechtenstein has the world’s second-highest GDP per capita (~$180,000+). Financial services and specialised manufacturing dominate.
Travel Guide
Entry: Schengen visa-free 90 days.
Budget: Expensive — Swiss-level prices.
Surprising Facts
- Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly-landlocked countries in the world (the other is Uzbekistan).
- Liechtenstein has no army since 1868.
- The Prince of Liechtenstein can legally veto any legislation.
- Liechtenstein was accidentally invaded by Switzerland twice in the 1980s and 2007 when soldiers got lost.
- There are no international airports in Liechtenstein — visitors fly to Zurich and take a 90-minute train/bus.
- Liechtenstein is the world’s largest exporter of false teeth — Ivoclar Vivadent produces dental prosthetics.
Sources and References
See the frontmatter for cited sources.