Liechtenstein Culture, Map, Flag, Tourist Places

Liechtenstein is situated in the Upper Rhine valley of the European Alps. The entire western border of Liechtenstein is formed by the river. In its east, Liechtenstein rises to higher altitudes, its highest point, the Grauspitz, reaches 2,599 metres (8,527 ft). Despite its alpine location, prevailing southerly winds make the climate of Liechtenstein rather mild. In winter, the mountain slopes are well suited to winter sports.

Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world; i.e., a landlocked country surrounded by other landlocked countries. The other is Uzbekistan. It is the only country with a predominantly German-speaking population that does not share a border with the Federal Republic of Germany.

Liechtenstein is the fourth smallest country of Europe, after Vatican City, Monaco, and San Marino. Its population is primarily ethnic German, though its resident population is approximately one third foreign-born, primarily Germans from the Federal Republic of Germany, Austria, and the Swiss Confederation, and other (Latin) Swiss.

The official language is German; most speak an Alemannic (a highly divergent) dialect of German, see Middle High German. About 76% of the population adhere to the Roman Catholic faith, while about 7% are Protestant.

On November 27, 2005, Liechtenstein voters rejected an initiative that would prohibit abortion, birth control, and living wills in the principality. Instead, a government-sponsored counterproposal was ratified. The anti-abortion initiative was supported by Roman Catholic Archbishop Wolfgang Haas. Hereditary Prince Alois was initially sympathetic to the anti-abortion proposal, but became neutral during the run-up to the vote.

Due to Liechtenstein's small size, the country has been strongly affected by external cultural influences, most notably those originating in the southern German-speaking areas of Europe, including Austria, Bavaria, Switzerland, and the Tyrol. The Historical Society of the Principality of Liechtenstein plays a role in preserving the culture and history of the country.

Liechtenstein is divided among eleven communities (Gemeinden - singular Gemeinde), most consisting of only a single town. whic are Vaduz , Schaan ,Balzers ,Triesen ,Eschen ,Mauren ,Triesenberg ,Ruggell ,Gamprin ,Schellenberg ,Planken

Liechtenstein Small country, big offer! Liechtenstein is full of life! There are plenty of attractions for all tastes are Museums, banks, boutiques, family entertainment, ski resorts, historical sites, sport facilities, vineyards etc.

Vaduz Castle, situated on a rock formation above the capital, dominates the city of Vaduz and offers a wonderful view of the Rhine Valley. Also recommended are visits to the State Art Collection, the National Museum, the Postage Stamp Museum and the Ski Museum. There are also Liechtenstein wines to be tasted and the local cuisine to be tried out in historical and traditional restaurants.

Winter sports in Liechtenstein are concentrated in two areas, Malbun (1600 above sea-level) and Steg (1300 above sea-level). In Malbun, there are two chair lifts, four ski lifts, one toboggan run and a well- maintained network of footpaths. A loipe, 10.5 km long, has been laid out for cross-country skiing enthusiasts and includes an oval area, 1.7 km long, which is illuminated for use at night. A toboggan run of 1 km in length from the Suecka restaurant in Steg is likewise equipped with lighting.

Mountain climbing, rambling, angling, hunting, swimming, riding, cycling, tennis, squash, billiards, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, skating and tobogganing are only some of the leisure activities which can be pursued in Liechtenstein. Fitness centres, public Kneipp cure facilities and Vita jogging circuits are also available. Carriage rides and paraglider and delta passenger flights are also offered. Cinemas and numerous dance spots and bars cater for evening entertainment.

Principality of Liechtenstein
National name: Fuerstentum Liechtenstein
Area: 62 sq mi (161 sq km)
Population (2006 est.): 33,987 (growth rate: 0.8%); birth rate: 10.2/1000; infant mortality rate: 4.6/1000; life expectancy: 79.7; density per sq mi: 547
Capital: Vaduz
Currency : Swiss franc
Languages: German (official), Alemannic dialect
Ethnicity/race: Alemannic 86%; Italian, Turkish, and other 14%
Religions: Roman Catholic, 77%, Protestant, 7%; unknown, 11% (2002)
Literacy rate: 100%