The sovereign principality of Liechtenstein is located in central
Europe , sandwiched between Austria to the east and Switzerland
to the west, south of Lake Constance and aside the east bank
of the Rhine river. One of the smallest countries in the world,
it measures approx. 5 miles wide by 15 miles in length.
Travel Insurance for Liechtenstein:
Area: Europe *
The terrain
is mainly mountains and valleys, with the highest peak being
Mt. Naafkopf at approx. 8,500 feet. The population is comprised
of mainly of Alemannic people, with Italian, Turkish and others.
The dominant religion is Roman Catholic with some Protestants
and others. German is the official language with the Alemannic
dialect (a Swiss/German mix). The closest international airport
is in Zurich , approx. 78 miles away.
The capital and largest city is Vaduz and other major cities
in Liechtenstein are Balzers, Malbun, Schaan, Nendein and Ruggell.
Vaduz has a population of approx. 5,000.
Being a part of the German Confederation in the 18 th century,
Liechtenstein was founded in 1719 and became a sovereign state
in 1806. The country has many interesting and historic landmarks,
including the medieval Vaduz Castle in the centre of the capital.
The Castle is the primary residence of the ruling family and
is not available for tours.
Visitors to the country can enjoy bicycle and skating trips
beside the Rhine as well as hiking in the mountains. There are
museums, including a Ski Museum and the Liechtenstein Art Museum
which houses a collection belonging to the Prince and includes
works by Rubens and Rembrandt. Liechtenstein is known for producing
its own postage stamps, and there is also a postage stamp museum.
For skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and
skating, the major winter destinations are Malbun and Steg where
all manner of winter sports are available.
As a summer destination, Liechtenstein has plenty to offer
for the visitor and especially outdoor enthusiasts with climbing,
and hiking in the nature reserves, forests and vineyards.
Liechtensteiners have a good standard of living with one of the
lowest tax rates in the world. |
