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Here are some critical facts about Liechtenstein:
- Liechtenstein is a small European country between Switzerland and Austria, landlocked by both countries. With just over 38,000 residents, it has one of the smallest populations of any country.
- Vaduz is the capital and seat of government, while Schaan is the largest city. Liechtenstein has the world's highest gross domestic product per person when adjusted for purchasing power parity.
- Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy headed by Prince Hans-Adam II. It does not have an airport but relies on Switzerland's airport in Zurich, which is very proximate.
- Tourism, manufacturing (notably false teeth and ceramics), foreign banking, and financial services are critical elements of Liechtenstein's economy. There is also no border control with Switzerland.
- Liechtenstein's landscape is mountainous and forested, with the Rhine Valley running through the western side. Its climate is continental, with cold, cloudy winters and cool to mild summers.
The official language is German, the primary religion is Roman Catholicism, and Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc for currency.
- Liechtenstein is the only country named after the family that owns it, which purchased the land from the Holy Roman Empire in the early 1700s.
So, in essence, Liechtenstein is Europe's fourth-smallest country, known for its tiny size, monarchical government, production of false teeth, and shared customs/currency with Switzerland.
