Liechtenstein: Alpine Principality

Liechtenstein, doubly landlocked between Switzerland and Austria, is one of the world's smallest and wealthiest countries. This German-speaking principality has transformed from agricultural state to financial center and high-tech manufacturing hub.

Vaduz, the capital, features the prince's castle overlooking the Rhine Valley. The Alps provide dramatic scenery. Despite small size, Liechtenstein has thriving economy with more registered companies than citizens. Low taxes attract businesses.

The princely family actively rules, making Liechtenstein a constitutional monarchy with significant royal power. The country uses Swiss franc and has close ties with Switzerland. Liechtenstein has leveraged favorable business conditions to create prosperity. The tiny nation demonstrates how small states can thrive through specialization and good governance.