Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a tiny, mountainous, landlocked country situated in Western Europe, bordered by Switzerland and Austria to its west and east respectively.

Fast Facts

1. Official Name: Principality of Liechtenstein
2. Capital: Vaduz
3. Government: Parliamentary Democracy, Constitutional Monarchy
4. Population: 34,247
5. Currency: Swiss Franc
6. Official Language: German
7. Time Zone: CET
8. The smallest German-speaking country in the world.
9. One of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world

Brief History

Liechtenstein, founded in 1719, was tied to the Austrian Empire until the end of World War I. Economically ruined after the war, Liechtenstein decided to form a monetary alliance with Switzerland.

Economic Controversy

Liechtenstein, well known for its status as a tax haven, faced much scrutiny in 2000 over accusations that it was a center for money laundering. After changes to the nation's business practices were instituted, it was successfully removed from the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development's blacklist in 2002.

Geography

Liechtenstein is only 24km long when measured from north to south. With a land area of 160 km² and 76km of border, Liechtenstein ranks as the sixth smallest country in the world. The country is situated in the upper part of a valley in the European Alps. As an Alpine country, the mountainous region makes winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and ice skating popular, due in part by southerly winds which contribute to a mild winter climate. Due to its geographical location, Liechtenstein has been strongly affected by cultures from surrounding countries such as Austria, Bavaria, Switzerland and Tyrol. The country has many famous historical sites including the Vaduz Castle, Gutenberg Castle, the Red House and the Schellenberg Ruins.

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