All tourists can be divided into two groups. Some seek to spend their holidays without too much fuss on the seashore, while others try to discover new cities and countries, see as many sights as possible. Those who like to learn about foreign history and culture should definitely visit the Principality of Liechtenstein. This small state is stretched for 28 kilometers along the right bank of the Rhine. Curious tourists can find a lot of interesting information here.
Basic information
The total area of the Principality is about 160 square kilometers. The capital is the second most populous city of Vaduz. No more than 37 thousand people live in the state of Liechtenstein. The time here is the same as in the nearest countries - in Switzerland and Austria (UTC + 1). The main currency is the Swiss franc.
Most of the population speaks German with a small local dialect. Therefore, tourists from Germany will have the easiest time here. However, others will draw for themselves a lot of interesting things in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Language is not a problem. You can always use onlinetranslator.
A little history of Liechtenstein
Evidence of the stay of people from the Stone Age was found on the territory of the current state. In 15 BC, the Romans lived here. However, already in the 5th century AD, the indigenous people were forced to cede territory to the German tribes during the confrontation. In the Middle Ages, several peoples lived here at once. Liechtenstein Square was densely populated by Swiss, Germans and Austrians. At the end of the 15th century, these territories were purchased by Prince Johann Adam Andreas von Liechtenstein. It is thanks to this historical figure that the state got its name.
The history of Liechtenstein is full of interesting events. The territories were not recognized as a separate state for a long time. For several centuries, the principality fought for its sovereignty. And only in 1806, thanks to participation in the Confederation of the Rhine, Liechtenstein was recognized as a separate country. In 1921, a constitution was signed, according to which the inhabitants of the state began to have all democratic rights. After World War II, the state made a huge leap in its economic development. If earlier almost no one knew where Liechtenstein was, today every advanced tourist seeks to visit this area.
Today, Liechtenstein is one of the most developed principalities in Europe, which officially belongs to the German-speaking countries. In addition to the indigenous people, Austrians, Swiss and French live here. Most of the population are Catholics. To otherslocal residents are loyal to religions and gladly accept tourists from Muslim and Christian countries.
Nature and climate
Despite the fact that the state of Liechtenstein lies in the mountainous Alpine belt, its climate is quite mild. South winds prevail here, and the average annual temperature is +10 degrees Celsius. In winter, there is rarely snow, local residents do not know severe frosts. In winter, the air temperature rarely drops below 0 degrees Celsius. But even on summer days, heat is not observed. Temperature +19 degrees is considered normal for July.
The real attraction of the country is the Rhine River, which flows right along the border. It has a fast current and glacial food. Therefore, tourists only have to bask in the soft rays of the sun or travel by kayak. After all, few dare to swim in cool water. The river has a width of about 50 meters and is a real gem of the Principality of Liechtenstein.
The country is considered one of the most picturesque in all of Europe. More than 35 percent of the entire territory is covered with forests. Spruce and oak predominate among tree species. Tourists who come here for the first time are impressed by the unusually clean air. About 15 percent of the entire Principality is occupied by pastures with dense grasses. The most common mammals here are roe deer, deer, mountain goats. Also on the territory you can meet raccoons, foxes, otters and hares. Birds also chose the Principality of Liechtenstein. Most often foundpartridges, quails, wild geese, cranes and thrushes.
Local population
Several ethnic groups live on the territory of the state today. The Germans predominate. At the end of December 2012, the population of the country was about 37 thousand people. Just ten years ago, this figure did not even reach 35,000. According to statistics, the average population density is 220 people per square kilometer. Today, the birth rate in the region significantly exceeds the death rate. These data cannot but rejoice.
The population is increasing every year thanks to emigrants. Many tend to leave their native lands and move to a picturesque economically developed country. Business emigration is especially popular here. Foreigners are attracted by strict banking secrecy laws. In addition, there are no certain types of taxes. All this is a fertile ground for the development of your own business. Perhaps it was thanks to this approach that the Principality grew significantly in economic terms in a short time.
Although the population of Liechtenstein today is small, the locals have already managed to form their own habits and traditions. The official language here is German. However, the Alemannic dialect is more commonly used in everyday life. Most of the locals are Catholic. You can also meet Christians and Muslims here. About 7 percent of the local population is Protestant.
The State of Liechtenstein on the map has clearborders. The five largest settlements are noted: Eschen, Shan, Triesen, Vaduz, Balzers. The second largest Vaduz is the capital of a small state.
A little about the capital
Vaduz as a city with a rich history and many attractions will certainly interest foreign tourists. More than five thousand inhabitants live here today. According to official data, the city was founded in the 13th century. Its founder is the Count of Werdenberg.
Although Vaduz is considered the capital, it is not the largest city in the state. More densely populated is Shan, which is considered a major railroad hub. Trains of the Swiss and Austrian railway lines stop here. Bus traffic is well developed in the capital. Tourists from the CIS countries note the high quality of city roads and country roads. Traveling here with your own car is a real pleasure.
The hallmark of the city is the prince's castle, which is comfortably located between two wide streets. A beautiful building can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. The facade of the castle is decorated with a large flag of Liechtenstein. Not far from the main attraction is the Cathedral of St. Florin, built in neo-Gothic style. The city also adorns the government house and the city hall. It is easy to notice the versatility of local architecture. Modern buildings contrast with mysterious gothic style.
The Principality of Liechtenstein has long attracted philatelists from various countriespeace. Every year, the local post office issues about 10,000 new rare stamps, which are mostly distributed to subscribers. The sale of stamps is considered a very large source of income for the Principality.
Work in Liechtenstein
Residents of the countries of the European Economic Area can safely cross the border of the Principality and live on its territory. Citizens of other states have to obtain a work permit in order to stay legally in Liechtenstein. Most of all, there is an influx of citizens from Austria and Switzerland. Any foreigners upon arrival are required to register within 10 calendar days. The exception is tourists who have a voucher and tickets with a return flight date in hand.
Employment permits can be easily obtained by individuals who have in-demand specializations, as well as senior employees. Preference is given to people who plan to stay in Liechtenstein for more than a year. A short-term permit is issued only to those persons who can prove their financial security. Social assistance is not provided to foreigners.
Education
The Principality of Liechtenstein is famous for only one institution of higher education. The high school has recently been transformed into a university. It is to this educational institution that the educational system of the principality is attached. And the diplomas received by graduates meet all European requirements. Students who receive education here may well expect prestigious jobs abroad.
Training is carried out in a few areas. The most popular are computer science, architecture and economics. This is easy enough to explain. It is these areas of life that are the most highly paid in many states. Foreign students also come to Liechtenstein. The country participates in several exchange programs. Training is conducted in German. The requirements at the university are the same as in similar institutions in other countries. Applicants who have reached the age of 17 and have a certificate of secondary education are accepted.
Culture of the State
Lichtenstein's small square has played a decisive role in the issue of local culture. Neighboring countries had a huge influence on the principality. It was especially observed from the German-speaking states located on the south side. Foreign tourists can delve into the local culture thanks to the Liechtenstein Art Museum. This institution keeps within its walls evidence of various eras. Some of the exhibits were imported from other countries. That is why the museum has international status.
The National Museum will also be of interest to tourists. The bright flag of Liechtenstein flaunts in the main hall. The expositions in the institution are constantly changing, art and photography exhibitions are held. When in Liechtenstein, it is also worth visiting the Ski Museum and the Printing Museum.
Theater and music are considered an important part of the local culture. One of the largest organizations is the Liechtenstein Music Company. Every year in the statecelebrating International Guitar Day. In the two main theaters you can regularly see the famous performances. Most of the theater goers are locals of middle and old age. Young people are more interested in modern music.
Economy
Liechtenstein is one of the richest countries. The nominal GDP today exceeds $5 billion. If you recalculate this figure per capita, it turns out that each local resident has more than 145 thousand dollars in annual income. Such well-being of the state was formed thanks to numerous foreign companies. There are more than 70 thousand of them today.
Liechtenstein has a very low unemployment rate. Only 2% of the adult local population does not work for one reason or another.
National holidays
The State of Liechtenstein has its own traditions, formed over the years. The main holiday of the principality is celebrated on March 15. On this day, many years ago, a small country was able to gain its sovereignty. Despite the small population of Liechtenstein, the people of the principality are distinguished by a high degree of patriotism. Both adults and children know perfectly well what the flag of the state looks like, they are familiar with the main historical facts.
Most of the locals are Catholics. Therefore, Christmas in Liechtenstein is celebrated on December 25th. It is considered a family holiday. People gather in a circle of relatives and friends and lay a chic table. As in other countries, a decorated spruce is an obligatory attribute of a festive evening. New Year traditionallycelebrate January 1.
How to get to Liechtenstein?
There are no airports in the country. The Principality is integrated into the Swiss transport system. Where is Liechtenstein, every advanced tourist should know. The most convenient way to visit the Principality is through Zurich. There is a large airport that can be reached from anywhere in the world. You can see Liechtenstein in advance on the road map. Hitchhiking from Zurich is much cheaper.
International trains also run through the Principality. However, many of them do not even stop on the territory of a small country. You can get there by commuter train.
