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Covering only 62.4 square miles and with a population of 32,000 people, it is a wonder the small European country of Liechtenstein even exists. But the principality has carved out a humble spot for itself on the European map since 1719, and offers a treat for tourists who are game for a diversion.
Liechtenstein is a small strip of earth wedged between Austria and Switzerland. The country is almost an extension of their Swiss neighbors as Liechtensteiners use the Swiss airport, the Swiss currency and official Swiss travel documents. The border between Liechtenstein and Switzerland is also open. Amicable relations between Liechtenstein and Switzerland have endured throughout the former’s history. The Liechtenstein family of Austria founded Liechtenstein when the two provinces of Vaduz and Schellenberg merged. By 1719 the Holy Roman Empire granted Liechtenstein the status of an independent principality. Given her small size, the young country felt threatened by her more powerful neighbors. Their fears were realized when Napoleon eventually conquered the nation. Liechtenstein's vanquished state didn’t last long and her independence was restored by 1815 with Napoleon’s demise. To avoid another aggressive takeover, Liechtenstein moved toward neutrality much like the Swiss. For a time, Liechtenstein allowed Switzerland to guide her foreign affairs. Liechtenstein's neutrality was respected throughout World War I and World War II.
Gradually the country has begun to shed its neutrality by joining the United Nations and the European Community. Today Liechtenstein has a strong economy with a high per capita income. Liechtenstein is known for their machinery, pottery and dental products. The government, a constitutional monarchy, is said to truly reflect the will of the people. The country is divided into two political regions: the upper (Vaduz) and the lower (Schellenberg) both of which contain the country’s eleven autonomous communities. Prince Hans Adams II serves as the country’s monarch.
Liechtenstein is perhaps best known by the Europeans for its excellent skiing. Situated near the Alps, the ski slopes are typically covered with three to six feet of snow by Christmas, with the first melt occurring in April. The alpine town of Malburn is the center of skiing activity with beginner to advanced slopes, cross country trails, toboggan runs and skating rinks, not to mention plenty of warm lodges for the après-ski. Malburn is also quite expensive, as is the rest of Liechtenstein.
For those traveling in the warmer months, the towns of Liechtenstein might not be brimming with activity like their European sisters, but they do have their own quiet charm. Vaduz is the seat of government and boasts most of the country’s museums. The State of the Art collections display pieces acquired by the royal family over the years. The Postage Stamp Museum exhibits an array of Liechtenstein postage stamps, which are highly regarded by stamp collectors. Ski enthusiasts will enjoy the Ski Museum which houses just about everything about skiing. The National Museum is home to exhibits that reflect Liechtenstein's history, featuring coins, weapons and other folklore. One of the most prominent sights in Vaduz is Vaduz Castle. The castle is home to Prince Hans Adams II and his family and is not open to the public. There are several hiking trails nearby, however, that afford excellent views of the city.
For those intent on seeing the inside of a castle, Schattenberg Castle in Feldkrich is open to the public. The 12th century building also houses a museum. Nearby is a small animal park.
Tourists often overlook Liechtenstein in their attempt to experience the more popular European destinations. Liechtenstein, however, is a microcosm of European culture without all the crowds. The population density is Liechtenstein low compared to other European countries and two-thirds of the country – mostly forest - have been preserved in nature parks. If new ski slopes, forested hiking paths, and a few old castles are on the itinerary, the small Liechtenstein will be sure to please in a big way.
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