All tourists can be divided into two groups. Some seek to spend their vacations without fuss on the seashore, while others try to discover new cities and countries, to see as many attractions as possible. Those who like to learn other people's 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 will be able to gather a lot of interesting information for themselves.
Basic information
The total area of the principality is about 160 square kilometers. The capital is considered the second most populated 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, the easiest place for tourists from Germany. However, others will draw for themselves many interesting things in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Language is not a problem. You can always use the online translator.
A bit of Liechtenstein's story
On the territory of the present state, evidence of the stay of people of the Stone Age was found. In 15 BC, the Romans lived here. However, already in the 5th century AD, the indigenous people during the confrontation were forced to cede territory to German tribes. In the Middle Ages several peoples lived here at once. Liechtenstein Square was densely populated by the 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 personality that the state got its name.
The history of Liechtenstein is full of interesting events. Territories have not been 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
Rhine Union, Liechtenstein was recognized as a separate country. In 1921, a constitution was signed, according to which the inhabitants of the state began to possess all democratic rights. After World War II, the state made a huge leap in its economic development. If before practically no one knew where Liechtenstein was, today every advanced tourist seeks to visit this area.
Today, Liechtenstein is one of the most developed principalities of Europe, which officially refers to German-speaking countries. In addition to the indigenous people, Austrians, Swiss and French live here. Most of the population are Catholics. Locals are loyal to other faiths and are happy to welcome tourists from Muslim and Christian countries.
Nature and climate
Despite the fact that the state of Liechtenstein lies in a mountain alpine zone, 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, air temperature rarely drops below 0 degrees Celsius. But in the summer days, heat is not observed. Normal for July is considered a temperature of +19 degrees.
The real attraction of the country is
the Rhine River, which flows directly along the border. It has a fast current and glacial nutrition. Therefore, tourists only need to bask in the soft rays of the sun or travel by kayak. After all, few decide to swim in cool water. The river has a width of about 50 meters and is a real decoration 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 by forests. Spruce and oak prevail among the tree species. Tourists who come here for the first time are impressed by the unusually clean air. About 15 percent of the 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 you can find partridges, quails, wild geese, cranes and blackbirds.
Local population
On the territory of the state today several ethnic groups live at once. The Germans prevail. At the end of December 2012, the country's population was about 37 thousand people. Just ten years ago, this figure did not reach 35 thousand. According to statistics, the average population density is 220 people per square kilometer. Today, the birth rate in the region far exceeds mortality. These data can not but rejoice.
The population is increasing annually thanks to emigrants. Many seek 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 favorable soil for the development of your own business. Perhaps, it is thanks to this approach that the principality has grown significantly in a short period of time economically.
Although Liechtenstein ’s population is small today, local residents have already formed their own habits and traditions. The official language is German. However, the Alemannic dialect is more often used in everyday life. Most locals profess Catholicism. Here you can also meet Christians and Muslims. About 7 percent of the local population profess Protestantism.
The state of Liechtenstein on the map has clear boundaries. Five largest settlements are noted: Eschen, Shan, Triesen, Vaduz, Balzers. The second largest Vaduz is the capital of a small state.
A little bit about the capital
Vaduz as a city with a rich history and many attractions will certainly interest foreign tourists. Today, more than five thousand inhabitants live here. According to official figures, the city was founded in the 13th century. Its founder is the Earl of Verdunberg.
Although Vaduz is considered the capital, but it is not the largest city in the state. More densely populated is Shan, which is considered a major railway center. The trains of the railway lines of Switzerland and Austria stop here. In the capital, bus traffic is well developed. Tourists from the CIS countries note the high quality of city roads and country roads. Traveling here with your own car is a pleasure.
The hallmark of the city is the princely castle, which is conveniently 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 the Neo-Gothic style. The city is also decorated with a government house and city hall. One can easily see the versatility of local architecture. Modern buildings come in contrast with the mysterious Gothic.
The Principality of Liechtenstein has long attracted philatelists from around the world. Every year, local mail issues about 10 thousand new rare stamps, which are mostly distributed to subscribers. Selling 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 countries have to obtain a work permit in order to stay in Liechtenstein legally. Most of all there is an influx of citizens of Austria and Switzerland. Any foreigners are required to register within 10 calendar days after arrival. An exception is tourists who have a ticket and tickets with a return flight date on hand.
Without problems, people who have a demanded specialization, as well as senior employees, can get a work permit. Preference is given to people who plan to stay in Liechtenstein for a period of more than a year. Short-term permission is issued only to those persons who can prove their financial security. Social assistance to foreigners is not provided.
Education
The Principality of Liechtenstein is famous for only one higher educational institution. High school has recently been transformed into a university. The educational system of the principality is attached to this educational institution. And the diplomas received by graduates correspond to all European requirements. Students who receive education here may well count on a prestigious job abroad.
Training is conducted in several areas. The most popular here are computer science, architecture and economics. This is easy enough to explain. It is these areas of life that are the highest paid in many states. Foreign students also come to Liechtenstein. The country participates in several exchange programs. The 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 years, as well as having a certificate of secondary education are accepted.
State culture
The small area of Liechtenstein played a decisive role in the issue of local culture. The neighboring countries had a great influence on the principality. Especially it was observed by the German-speaking states located on the south side. Foreign tourists can delve into the local culture thanks to the Liechtenstein Museum of Art. This institution keeps in its walls the evidence of various eras. Some exhibits were imported from other countries. That is why the museum has international status.
The National Museum will also be interesting for tourists. A bright flag of Liechtenstein flaunts in the main hall. Expositions in the institution are constantly changing, art and photo exhibitions are held. Arriving in Liechtenstein, you should also visit the ski
museum and
the print museum.Theaters and music are considered an important part of the local culture. One of the largest organizations is the Liechtenstein Music Company. Every year, the state celebrates International Guitar Day. In the two main theaters, you can regularly see famous productions. Most of the theater visitors are middle-aged and elderly locals. Young people are more interested in modern music.
Economy
Liechtenstein is one of the richest countries. The nominal value of GDP today exceeds $ 5 billion. If we recalculate this figure per capita, it turns out that each local resident has more than 145 thousand dollars of annual income. This welfare of the state was formed thanks to numerous foreign companies. There are over 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 are well aware of what the state flag looks like, they are familiar with the basic 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 set up a chic table. As in other countries, a decorated fir tree is a mandatory attribute of a festive evening. New Year is traditionally celebrated on January 1.
How to get to Liechtenstein?
There are no airports in the country. The Principality is integrated into the Swiss transport system. Where Liechtenstein is located, every advanced tourist should know. The most convenient way to visit the principality is through Zurich. There is a major airport that can be reached from anywhere in the world. You can see Liechtenstein in advance on a road map. Much cheaper will be able to get from Zurich hitchhiking.
International trains also run through the principality. However, many of them do not even stop in a small country. You will be able to get on a commuter train.