Liechtenstein, Oh Liechtenstein! I Hear You Call My Name

Ever since I did a project in Grade Seven on the principality of Liechtenstein, I have been fascinated with this mini-state. Over the years I have read everything I could find on it. I collected magazine and newspaper articles, pictures and books (many of them out of print). I have never been able to visit Liechtenstein in person but I hope to be able to do so this year.

Liechtenstein is an independent country ruled by a constitutional prince and an elected parliament. Its 32,000 citizens live in 62 square miles on the east bank of the Upper Rhine River in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria. Liechtenstein has been a self-governing country since the early 1800's. Its army was disbanded in the 1860's and it has not known war since then. Like Switzerland it was neutral during both World Wars I and II.

Though small in numbers, its people are big in heart. They actively participate in the United Nations and other world and regional organizations as well as their own government.

Their history goes back 2000 years. Romans, Germanic tribes, Goths, Franks, and other invaders have marched though and plundered this land. Napoleon took a liking to the country and its ruling Prince even though the Prince was a General in the opposing Austrian army. The family of its ruling Prince was once one of the leading houses in the Austrian Empire. It members were famous generals and statesmen. Its Prince today is a respect member of the international scene. Liechtenstein sits at one of the crossroads of Europe - the north south route of the Rhine River and the east west route through mountain passes.

Once allied closely to Austrian, after World War I, Liechtenstein entered into a Postal Union with Switzerland. It still maintains its independence while relying on its neighbour for military protection.

Its geography ranges from farmland on the banks of the Rhine to high mountain valleys covered in snow in the winter. It is a hiker's paradise and a famous skiing destination. There are a number of magnificent lookouts, some where you can take in nearly the whole country with one sweeping view.

Liechtenstein is one of the most highly industrialized countries in the world yet has learned to balance industrial development with its environment. A Liechtensteiner started the famous Hilti Corporation and its international headquarters is still there.

Liechtenstein has been an active participant in refugee aid. It had given haven to more refugees per capita than any other country and has its own Red Cross and Peace Corp.

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