Thematic block: Andorra and Monaco. Small states of Europe (Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, San Marino, Luxembourg) Andorra and Monaco

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, despite its miniature size, does not belong to the dwarf states of which six countries are officially considered in Europe (namely: Andorra, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican). Luxembourg is just a small country with a population of about half a million people (less than, for example, in Irkutsk). Despite this, and in many cases even because of this, Luxembourg has earned the prefix “the only one in the world”, “the best” or “one of the best” in various areas.

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Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Today, Luxembourg is the only, or better yet, the last Grand Duchy in the world. That is, the head of the state is the Grand Duke. Now this is His Royal Highness Henri Albert Gabriel Felix Marie Guillaume, or simply Henry I, whose ancestral house was the Bourbons. In ancient times, the Duke was a tribal prince, owner large territories and was located in second place after the king in the military hierarchy.

Luxembourg is one of the oldest states in the world. and the military fortifications, located on steep cliffs in the valley of the Alzette River, formerly called "Lucilinburhuc", were practically impregnable and lasted until the mid-nineteenth century. The name “Luxembourg” comes from the name of these fortifications.

Over its history, surrounded by “giant states,” Luxembourg has seen a lot. It constantly passed from one owner to another, was under siege more than 20 times, was completely destroyed and restored again. Only in the second half of the 19th century was it recognized as an independent state.

Another historical fact: Luxembourg has the second highest death toll in World War II in percentage terms. The country lost about 10% of its total population.

Luxembourg has one of the highest proportions of immigrants in Europe, around a third of the population.

Three languages ​​are spoken here: Luxembourgish, French and German.

That’s probably all there is to the basic information about the Grand Duchy. Hope, general impression it worked out. Now some photos.

The most amazing thing about Luxembourg is the views of the city from the hills, bridges and fortifications. I don’t know what the city looks like in winter, but in summer and autumn it is very beautiful here.

Luxembourgers themselves consider their main city and country as a whole to be the greenest in Western Europe. It's hard to disagree.

By the way, there are about a hundred bridges in the capital of the Grand Duchy.

This is such a wonderful city.

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What they have in common with each other is that they are more prosperous than many of their larger neighbors. They become tax havens for the rich or shopping oases with cheap alcohol and cigarettes for residents of border villages. A significant source of income for these countries is postage stamps: there are probably much more philatelists in the world than there are residents of Litenstein.

Andorra

Small country, located in mountain valley between France and Spain. The main source of income is tourism. Popular thanks to ski resorts and lower prices for alcohol and cigarettes than their neighbors. Andorra is a prosperous and well-groomed country, but prices here are not as high as in much smaller Monaco and Liechtenstein. It’s worth coming here for the mountain scenery, relaxed atmosphere, museums and small islands of ancient architecture.

Moving

Andorra is separated from Spain and France by mountains. The nearest large French city with connections is Toulouse, the Spanish one is Barcelona. At the same time, both Spaniards and French travel to Andorra quite often, so the cheapest and easiest way is to use Blablacar - there are more than a dozen offers to Andorra almost every day.

You can find a bus from Barcelona for 28 euros, Blablacar will cost 15. There is no railway in Andorra, but from Toulouse you can take a train to the Gare d'Andorre-L'Hospitalet station for about 23 euros, and then change to a bus for 13 euros , either direct or with Blablacar for 11 euros. French city Perpignan is even closer than Toulouse, but there is no direct connection - buses go through Barcelona, ​​so it is also cheaper to go by Blablacar - 11 euros.

It is more convenient to travel around Andorra by buses, which run from every 20 minutes (for short distances) to once an hour and cost from 1.80 to 6 euros. The schedule and routes can be viewed.

You can walk between some settlements, but it is better to check in advance whether the road is going up all the time. This can be done by selecting walking mode in Google Maps: elevation changes will be indicated in detail.

Accommodation

In Andorra la Vella, hotel prices start from 23 euros for two, in hostels - from 16. An overnight stay near the capital will cost 5.85 euros per person. There can be problems with wild camping: it is officially prohibited, and there is practically no place to put a tent unnoticed. Couchsurfing doesn't work very well here: there are few users and they are mostly inactive, so it's better to write requests in advance.

Currency and communications

In Andorra it is the euro.

The country is not part of the European Union, so additional roaming fees may be charged from a European SIM card. Free Wi-Fi is available at kiosks tourist information, McDonald's and random places in the center.

Language

Andorrans make up 45% of the population. The largest national minority is ethnic Spaniards (26%). They are followed by the Portuguese (14%) and the French (5%). Official language- Catalan. Many speak Spanish; slightly fewer people speak French.

Nutrition

In the capital, supermarkets have an inexpensive section of prepared foods. In cafes and fast food establishments, prices are approximately the same as in France (5–7 euros per kebab).

What to see

Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany

Essentially, this is one city with a small river flowing through it. Andorra la Vella is the highest capital of Europe. The city is small, green and surrounded by mountains.

On main street There are mainly shops and cafes.

Here you can see several nice art objects, and at the end, in that part of the city that is already considered a separate settlement, you can find inexpensive hotels.

Barri Antic is the historical part of the city, very small but nice.

There are several in the capital interesting museums, most of which have inexpensive tickets. You can also purchase a “museum lover’s passport”, in which case entrance to three museums to choose from will cost half as much.

La Massana

A town in the mountains where tourists who come to ski are based. A free one is also located here.

Ordino

A small village with an old church and a couple of cobbled streets with old houses.

Encamp

Pas de la Casa

A border town where the French go for shopping and skiing.

Santa Coloma

A town between the capital and the Spanish border, famous for its ancient church built in the 8th–9th centuries.

Liechtenstein

The easiest way to get to Liechtenstein is from the Swiss Buchs and the Austrian Feldkirch - city buses circulate between them and the capital. The area of ​​Liechtenstein is also relatively small - 160 square meters. km. About the same - near the city of Naberezhnye Chelny. A regular city bus runs between settlements.

The entire population of Liechtenstein - 37,666 people - is a couple of thousand less than the population of the city of Tutaev Yaroslavl region. It could fit in the Rostov Arena stadium - two hundred seats would even remain empty.

Moving

The main life hack on how to save on transport: August 15 in the country National holiday, and travel is free, including buses that go to nearby cities in Switzerland and Austria. Given the short distances, you can travel around the entire country in one day. Also on this day all museums are free, and in the morning treats are handed out near the castle.

Basic bus routes They also lead to the main attractions of the country, of which there are very few. Vaduz - Malbun - probably the most picturesque: the bus climbs up the mountain, passing Old city ok Triesenberg. There is also a route to the south - to Balzers (where you can see the castle) and to the north - to Schellenberg (where you can wander through the ruins of two castles). In the cities of Gamprin and Shan, located in the flat part of the country, we did not find any interesting sights.

The country is divided into 4 zones. A 1-day pass for all zones costs 15 francs (approximately $15). .

Many people explore Liechtenstein by bike, but this option is only suitable for those who don't mind riding uphill. You can borrow a bicycle for free at one of the bike stations. For authorization you will need mobile phone. .

Accommodation

In Liechtenstein, staying in hotels is much more expensive than in Feldkirch, where a night for two will cost 45 euros. In Schaen or Triesenberg prices start from 80 euros per night. You can live in Feldkirch and travel to Liechtenstein by bus. Airbnb has interesting options for 36 euros for two in the south of the country. The distances here are so small that there is no need to worry if the accommodation you find is far from Vaduz.

From April to October you can spend the night in Triesen (a town near Vaduz). The cost for one person with a small tent is 15 francs (about $15). Wild camping in Liechtenstein can be difficult: on the plains it will be difficult to put up a tent unnoticed, and in the mountains it will be difficult to find a comfortable place.

If you look for an overnight stay through couchsurfing, it will by default show not only Schaan, Vaduz and other cities of Liechtenstein, but also neighboring Swiss and Austrian cities. You can get rid of this by changing the distance in the settings.

There are a number of active couchsurfers in Liechtenstein, but they often have guests. Therefore, the probability of finding a free sofa among the residents of Feldkirch and Buchsabove, especially if you write a request shortly before arrival.

Currency and communications

Liechtenstein does not have its own currency, it is Swiss francs. Euros are also accepted, but not always according to good rate, as in Switzerland. Prices and standard of living here are also Swiss.

There is free Wi-Fi in the city center; to connect you need to log in using your mobile phone.

Language

The main language is Swiss. Many people speak other European languages, including English.

Nutrition

The prices in the cafe are very high even by Swiss standards. The only more or less inexpensive way to eat is to buy ready-made food in the supermarket. On major holidays, shops are closed, so if you decide to use this life hack and come to Liechtenstein Day, it is better to take food with you.

During the holiday, you can also have lunch at the city fair, but it is not cheap (about 7-10 euros for a kebab or a plate of rice with vegetables). As in Switzerland, there are water fountains, so you can take a plastic bottle with you and fill it up periodically. Many locals do this.

What to see

Vaduz

The capital of Liechtenstein, Vaduz, is a small town and the second largest settlement. The first is the neighboring city of Shan, located a few kilometers from the capital and almost flowing into it. These are more villages than cities.

All residents of the capital could fit into one big a cruise ship, if two people stayed in cabins, there are 5429 of them. There are 500 more people living in Shan, they would no longer fit on the liner.

The main attraction of Vaduz is the castle, located on a hill, which can be reached on foot or by bus. Due to the fact that it is still used by the princely family, you cannot enter inside. Along the route from the city to the castle there are signs telling you about the history, economy and culture of Liechtenstein. The best way to get there is by bus, and to go down on foot - although the distance is short, the climb is very steep.

Another option to save money and take a pleasant route to the castle is to walk from nearby Triesenberg. The city is located on a hill, so you will walk for about 40 minutes, mostly downhill along a good asphalt road through the forest. Cars hardly travel along it, since there is a direct road from the city to Vaduz.

Another attraction is the Cathedral of St. Florin. There are also several paid and not very interesting museums in the city. A map of the city and a booklet about the country badly translated into Russian (a great souvenir!) can be picked up at the tourist information kiosk.

Balzers

Locality in the south of the country. Gutenberg Castle is located in Balzers. They are not allowed inside, but from the outside you can see all the most interesting things, and from there it opens scenic view to the surrounding area.

Triesenberg

A small hillside town with old houses and the stone church of St. Joseph.

Malbun

A mountain village where people go skiing in the winter season. It's worth going here for the inspiring views.

Schellenberg

There are two not very well preserved ruined castles here. You can walk between them and admire village life and nature along the way.

The entrance is free.

Monaco

The smallest and most urbanized country of the three. Only the Vatican is smaller. Entirely located on a slope that goes down to the sea. The country is divided into 9 parts that smoothly flow into each other. For tourists, Monte Carlo and Monaco-Ville are primarily of interest.

Monte Carlo is the more modern part, famous for its casino and Formula 1 route and is sometimes mistakenly called the capital of Monaco. Monaco-Ville is the historical center.

Moving

Accommodation

Living in Monaco is about three times more expensive than in Nice, where you can rent a double or Airbnb room for around 30 euros. Couchsurfers from Monaco are reluctant to answer. Free overnight accommodation is also easier to find in Nice, although here, as a rule, there are more people looking for accommodation than people wanting shelter. It is better to write to couchsurfers in advance.

There are no campsites in Monaco, but there are some in France and Italy near the border. If you are hitchhiking, you can spend the night in a tent at the Aire de Service de La Scoperta gas station, where there is a shower and there is no official ban on camping. From here you can walk to Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo (walk about 5–7 km down) or hitchhike.

Currency and communications

The official currency of Monaco is the euro.

There is free city Wi-Fi in some parts of the city, but we were unable to connect to it. As always in such cases, McDonald's and Starbucks come to the rescue. Cellular communication here is unique, so European SIM cards designed for the eurozone work in roaming in Monaco.

Language

Monegasque is, in fact, a dialect of French - the official state language. Many speak English.

Nutrition

Monaco is more expensive than France and especially Italy. You can eat at fast food or buy ready-made food in a supermarket - prices are practically no different from French ones.

What to see

Monaco-Ville

The most interesting place in Monaco - the old town of Monaco-Ville. It is located on a small island and can be completely walked around in a couple of hours.

There are two nearby public beach- pebble and concrete with ladders into the water. There is a shower here; there are no sun loungers, umbrellas or crowds of tourists.

Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo is a chic area with casinos and boutiques. Entry to the main part of the casino is free. You can also see the Formula 1 track and a Japanese garden for free.

La Turbie

On the way from the motorway to Monaco-Ville open beautiful views to the bay.

It is worth visiting the small medieval town of La Turbie for an hour with old houses, a church and picturesque pedestrian streets. There are ancient Roman ruins and old church. The St. Augustine Trail runs through the town.

42 +24 surfers

There are four states in Europe that together occupy an area smaller than Moscow. Unlike other small states that appeared on the world map relatively recently, they have a centuries-old past. They trace their history back to the times when almost all of Europe consisted of the same small states. They are now largely dependent on their stronger neighbors. And yet each of them has its own face, its own characteristics.
Little Andorra (its area is 465 km2, population is over 45,000 people) is lost in the Pyrenees mountains, between France and Spain. Officially, it is a principality, in fact it is a republic that has its own government, but its co-rulers are the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell (Spain). The highway connecting Spain and France runs through Andorra. Many foreign tourists come here. Their service is the main source of income for the population. Andorra sells sheep's wool to neighbors. There are small enterprises in the tobacco and food industries here, selling souvenirs for tourists - wooden and metal handicrafts. Population mountain villages He is also engaged in farming. French and Spanish are spoken in the country.
The smallest of the tiny states is the Principality of Monaco. Its area is about 2 km 2, its population is 30,000 people. It is under the tutelage of France, and French is spoken here. This picturesque corner on the shore Mediterranean Sea with a mild climate and rich subtropical vegetation has become a worldwide famous resort, where people come from all over the world.
The main sources of state income are trade, services for foreign tourists, visitors to resorts, gambling houses, and the issue of postage stamps.
Industries such as chemical, electronic, construction, precision engineering, textile, and food have developed here. On the territory of Monaco there is an oceanographic institute and a museum where the inhabitants of the underwater world live in a magnificent aquarium.
On the right bank of the Rhine, between Austria and Switzerland, is the Principality of Liechtenstein (area - about 160 km 2, population - about 30,000 people). Three quarters of its territory are occupied by mountains covered with coniferous forests and meadows. The climate in the mountains is harsh, in the valley it is mild, with warm summers. Residents raise livestock, grow wheat, vegetables and grapes, and brew beer. Plants and factories produce counting machines, fabrics, chemical products, and medicines. A significant part of the population is employed in handicraft production. Almost all industrial products are exported. Liechtenstein's economy is heavily dependent on neighboring Switzerland and Austria.
Over 25 thousand foreign companies are registered in the country, which often have 1-2 employees, since the tax on these companies is very low. It constitutes an important source of income for the principality. Significant profits come from foreign tourism, as well as the issuance of postage stamps.
In Liechtenstein they mainly speak German. At the head of this small state the prince is standing.
The small republic of San Marino is located in the Apennine Mountains (area 61 km2, population 22,600 people). According to legend, San Marino was founded in 301. Then, in one of the caves in the mountains, the mason Marine took refuge from the persecution of the feudal lords, and created a community here.
The republic's only neighbor is Italy. And although San Marino is politically independent, in the economic field it is closely linked to Italy. The country does not even have its own money - it is replaced by the Italian lira. Residents of this country cultivate gardens and vineyards, grow wheat and corn, and raise livestock. The main sectors of the economy are industry, agriculture, foreign tourism, the production of souvenirs and the production of postage stamps. In addition to their own small industrial enterprises that produce Construction Materials, ceramics and knitwear, branches of some Italian engineering and other companies are located in San Marino. The main type of transport is automobile.
In addition to these four small states in Europe, there is one more small state- Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Area - about 2.6 km2. Strong neighbors - France, Germany - tried many times to seize the state, but it was the struggle between them that allowed the small heroic people to defend their independence. And yet, large capitalists from neighboring countries - Belgium and France - play a large role in the country.
Luxembourg is a highly developed industrial country. The basis of the economy is the modern large metallurgical industry, since the routes from the Ruhr to Lorraine cross in the duchy (this largest districts Europe, where coal is mined). Livestock farming, vegetable growing, and viticulture are developed.
Luxembourg's distinctive nature - fast rivers, wide valleys, lush forests - and ancient monuments attract many tourists.
The official languages ​​are German and French, but at home and in the family they prefer their own language, Luxembourgish.
Vatican - area - 0.44 km2, population - about 1,000 people. Read the story about the Vatican in the Vatican section.

Strapped by Borders big countries, these states are barely visible on the world map. The largest of them, Andorra(468 km²), almost five and a half times placed on the territory of today's Moscow. The smallest of the dwarfs, Vatican(0.44 km²), - 5707 times. It would seem, how can one take seriously government entities of such ridiculous (from the point of view of Russians) sizes? But the world looks at these countries with respect and... envy.

Financial oasis

Klaus Koppe, a venerable Latin teacher, moved from Munich to the capital Liechtenstein more than ten years ago. Vaduz, with a population of five thousand, is not the largest city in the country - almost seven hundred more people live in neighboring Shan.

Klaus doesn't feel like an outsider. Everyone here speaks his native German and is in no hurry. Klaus lives in the city center, in a two-story old mansion with a fireplace and a garden, which overlooks the main attraction of the city - Vaduz Castle, rising on a hill. If it gets boring, the teacher gets behind the wheel and drives 200 kilometers to visit his native land. It happens that a German, following the example of other residents, does not lock the front door: there is no need to worry that someone will want to visit in the absence of the owners.

Klaus, like most residents of Vaduz, knows almost everyone by name. He more than once encountered members of the royal dynasty of Liechtenstein in the forest, picking mushrooms. What no one knows is those people who hold millions of dollars in deposits in state banks. Liechtenstein keeps secret the names of investors who are happy to hide money in the principality from taxes on income and profits adopted in their countries. This is very attractive to foreign businessmen, as is the absence of taxes on gifts and inheritance, as well as the law according to which organizations of any type can be created on the territory of the state.

Thanks to foreign companies, Liechtenstein citizens do not experience unemployment, because every company registered here must have a local representative. And if you consider that there are more companies registered in the principality than citizens, then it becomes clear where such a high standard of living in the country comes from. The average annual income per capita is 57,100 euros (for comparison: in Russia - 15,100 euros).

Monaco also provides for its citizens at the expense of foreigners. The Principality provides tax benefits to foreign companies and entrepreneurs in response to the fact that they undertake to hire Monegasques - subjects of the Monegasque crown. At any enterprise, half of the employees must be citizens of the country. The average salary in Monaco is 5,500 euros per month. The principality exempted its residents from most taxes, but left an inheritance tax (up to 16%) and a high VAT (about 20%), which confirms the country’s reputation for luxurious living. Life is much cheaper in Andorra. There are no taxes there, including inheritance taxes. The income of an Andorran is on average 10% higher than that of residents of EU countries. The state treasury is replenished by import duties, tourism and banking services. Foreigners can easily open accounts in local banks and avoid paying taxes on deposit income. Behind banking services the country charges each client 400–500 euros per year.

Exclusive offer

In the north, Andorra is literally pressed by France, in the south - by Spain. Being surrounded by such giants, it is easy to get lost. And it’s not easy to get people to come to a high mountainous country that has neither an airport nor railways. Squeezed by serious competitors, Andorra did not compete with them, but invited them to visit them for shopping. I was interested in year-round discounts and the absence of customs duties. Prices here are a third lower than in Europe. Visit the country duty free for the French and the Spaniards it became a pleasant habit.

Whenever family of 35-year-old TV producer Santiago Rodriguez wants to make a valuable purchase, she travels by car from Valencia to Andorra. " There are shopping buses from my city, despite the long distance (more than 400 kilometers), says Santiago. - Many friends from Catalonia visit Andorra regularly. Barcelona is an expensive city, so residents prefer to buy in neighboring country cigarettes, alcohol and even sugar. I stop in Andorra every time I go to France to refuel. Until recently, gasoline here was a third cheaper. Now the price has risen, but nevertheless the difference is noticeable: in Andorra 1.24 euros per liter, in France - 1.47" (For comparison: in Russia - about 0.76 euros. - Note "Around the World".)

Santiago claims that, surprisingly, the majority of buyers in Andorra are Spanish. The French visit it more to go skiing. Because of this, customs police at the borders of these countries behave differently. “At the Spanish border, every sixth car is checked, but at the French border they don’t pay any attention to what you take out,” says Santiago. “Knowing this, many Catalans leave Andorra from the French side, especially if the purchased goods exceed the allowed limit of 900 euros.”.

If every one of the 10 million tourists who visit the mini-country every year makes a mini-shopping, Andorra's economy will continue to prosper. So are its stores, which sell jewelry, luxury clothing, electronics and cars. Santiago believes that if it weren't for duty-free goods, no one would climb so high into Andorra (the city of Andorra la Vella is located at 1079 meters). And since the traveler has climbed here, the country will take care of his comfort. Andorra's reputation as Europe's cheapest market makes it a great draw for ski tourism. Income from tourists, by the way, accounts for 80% of the country's GDP.

Liechtenstein has also learned the rule that there is no point in competing with neighbors. It is necessary either to offer similar services, but at a lower price, as is the case with the ski sector, or to create an exclusive one. Stamps that are so exclusive are available for only 2.5 euros per tourist office Vaduz will decorate the passport of anyone. An entry stamp into the country was not required before, since tourists came here with a Swiss visa, and when the principality joined the Schengen Union, it was no longer necessary. But not demand. Souvenir check-in has become one of the main “purchases” in the country. Just like postage stamps, which began to be issued in 1912. They are highly valued by philatelists around the world. The sale of stamps brings the principality 12% of all income.

Monaco went a different route. Having successfully grabbed a piece for yourself, albeit a small one Cote d'Azur between Italy and France, the principality came up with a brilliant hook for a public accustomed to luxury holiday. In the middle of the 19th century, Prince Florestan from the Grimaldi dynasty looked with envy towards Cannes and Nice. He understood that the territory of his state did not allow him to expand, and the rocky coast was not entirely suitable for creating a resort that could compete with French beaches. And then the prince came up with the idea of ​​​​turning Monaco into an attraction for people with great opportunities. With the opening of the casino, rich holidaymakers began to flow into the principality, and with them capital. The casino and Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix are considered the main reasons to visit the country. By the way, state income from gambling entertainment itself only 4%. This is only a small part of what wealthy tourists bring to the treasury. But Monegasques are prohibited from gambling at home. Why lose what others have lost to the people of this small country? Monaco protects the income of its few citizens. It is a special privilege to be a citizen of an elite state that lives largely at the expense of foreign capital. Becoming a citizen of such a state is an unattainable dream for many.

Special class

Before obtaining Liechtenstein citizenship, the applicant must live in the state for 30 years. But if the members of the commune in which a foreigner lives want to accept him into the narrow circle of Liechtensteiners, they can reduce this long term expectations by voting.

Only a person who has lived legally in the country for 20 years, spending a total of at least 183 days in it annually, can become an Andorran. There are not many of them. Two thirds of Andorra's population are stateless. These 52,000 people cannot vote and have a number of other rights limited. By the way, having received Andorran citizenship, you will have to renounce your previous citizenship. The country does not recognize binationals, like Monaco. About 36,000 people live in this principality on two square kilometers. Of these, only 24% can proudly call themselves citizens. The rest are, well, foreigners, despite the fact that they have given this country more than a dozen years and more than tens of thousands of euros. It is almost impossible to obtain citizenship, but a residence permit is possible. By becoming a resident of Monaco, a person gains the right to enjoy preferential taxation. However, the carte de sejour (resident card) itself is not cheap, which confirms the thesis: “Monaco is a country for millionaires.” To get it, you need to acquire real estate. Housing on a tiny piece of the Cote d'Azur is one of the most expensive in Europe, from 500,000 euros per apartment (cost per square meter from 20,000 to 70,000 euros). But judging by the actively developing neighborhoods, the demand is huge. Less wealthy foreigners rent housing for 1,000–3,000 euros per month. In addition, those wishing to become a resident must open a bank account in Monaco for at least 100,000 euros - as proof of financial solvency.

A residence permit opens many doors, but not all. Thus, only Monegasques are allowed to own real estate in the Old City and take part in parliamentary voting. You can become a citizen after ten years of official residence here (provided you stay in the country for at least six months a year) or (for women) after five years of marriage to a Monegasque. On rare occasions, this honor is bestowed by the Prince of Monaco for special services to the state.

A graduate of St. Petersburg State University, Alexandra Nemets, who has lived in Monaco for only two years, does not have such merits, but she does have a love for the country. “Over two years of my life, I developed “Monaco syndrome” - dependence on the sun and good weather and intolerance to long distances. Here you can get everywhere on foot, and if you get tired of the monotony, you can take the train and in 10 minutes order lunch in France or Italy. Monaco is an absolutely safe place: there are video cameras and police everywhere. You can leave your premium car unlocked or forget your phone and find it in the same place. Such big cities, like Paris or St. Petersburg, where I used to live, there are all aspects of life: bad and good. In Monaco there are only good ones.”

Citizens of Monaco, like citizens of Andorra and Liechtenstein, are confident that they live in best country peace. In a country where, in a small area, you have everything you need for a happy, comfortable and safe existence. Their country made sure they felt chosen. And let everyone else touch it ideal world. And support him financially.

Liechtenstein is one of the dwarf states of Europe, or rather a principality located on the border of Austria and Switzerland. It is a small enclave of prosperity, stability and a high standard of living. About 40 thousand people live in the entire country, in big city 6 thousand inhabitants. There are only 120 employees in law enforcement agencies.

Liechtenstein is located among the picturesque Alps. Against the backdrop of the quiet and well-groomed streets of Schan and Vaduz, mountain peaks sparkle, alpine meadows and forests. Fans will be interested in visiting the principality skiing, cyclists and simply lovers of active recreation.

You can do a lot in a short period of time in Liechtenstein: see castles scattered among the mountains, sunbathe comfortable beaches on the banks of the Rhine, enjoy the luxury of hotels and impeccable service.

The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in Liechtenstein?

The most interesting and Beautiful places, photographs and brief description.

The building was built in the early Middle Ages. Its owners were people from the noble family of Werdenberg-Sargans. Later, the castle was restored, acquiring new buildings. Today Vaduz serves official residence ruling prince, access to tourists there is open only on August 15. This is a public holiday, in honor of which a festival is held on the castle grounds.

A superbly preserved medieval fortress in the south of the state, one of the most iconic attractions. It is believed that it was built in the 11th-12th centuries. The castle rises 70 meters above the surrounding area; in the courtyard there is a rose garden and a Gothic chapel. Festivals and theater troupes often perform here. Only during the holiday can anyone enter the territory.

Located in the capital - the city of Vaduz, it is an architectural monument of historical significance (came under protection in 1992). The building appeared at the beginning of the 20th century; the architect Gustav von Neumann during construction focused on the neo-Baroque style. The building looks very neat, elegant and fits completely into the surrounding landscape. The Government House is a decoration and business card capital Cities.

The building is used for meetings and meetings of the capital city council. The architecture is designed with German rigor and Swiss precision, distinguished by laconic forms and functional elements. In the meeting room there is a gallery of portraits of the princes of Liechtenstein, as well as the city burgomasters. The town hall appeared in 1932, construction was carried out under the direction of the architect F. Reckle.

A pedestrian street where the main attractions of the capital are concentrated. Here you can leisurely drink coffee with fresh pastries in cozy cafes or visit numerous shops. On Städl there is a large number of interesting sculptures that create a special atmosphere in this place. There is also a postal museum here, English house and some administrative buildings.

The temple is in a neo-Gothic style, built in the 19th century on the site of an old medieval church. The cathedral is dedicated to one of the local saints and patrons, Florin of Remus. Despite the fact that the cathedral is Catholic, appearance and the interior decoration corresponds more to Protestant canons - modesty and restraint in the decoration of walls, statues, the absence of rich decoration and unnecessary pomp.

In this place you can get acquainted with the history of the country, learn Interesting Facts and comprehend the events that took place here over the centuries. The museum consists of two ancient and one modern buildings, and there is also a small branch in the Schellenberg community. Here are collections of antiques, paintings, weapons, dishes, and various items that once belonged to the princely family of Liechtenstein.

It is under the jurisdiction of the State Museum; its founding date is considered to be 1930. It contains a large collection of stamps issued in the principality since 1912. The exhibition also contains documents related to postal affairs, engraving tools, printing machines, sketches of stamps, and postmen's uniforms. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that house displays from other galleries.

Modern building, opened in 2000. This is a museum of modern art because most The exhibition consists of fashion installations and interesting art objects, among which sculptures deserve special attention. The structure is a black cube, the walls are decorated with pebbles from the Rhine River. The museum also houses the huge private collection of the Prince of Liechtenstein.

A natural attraction on the border of Liechtenstein with Austria. At the foot there is a castle and chapel of the 9th century, at the top there are the ruins of another castle, which was once a princely residence. There are several climbing routes of varying difficulty around the mountain; from the top there is a picturesque view of the valley. The peaks rise above the capital of the principality - the city of Vaduz.

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