The Quirks of Liechtenstein : Vaduz , Gutenberg Castle and Walking with Alpacas

September 2024: Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a tiny, unique nation with a population of just 39,000 making it one of the world’s smallest countries . Despite its small size, this Alpine country has an intriguing history and a quirky charm. Ruled by Prince Hans-Adam II, Liechtenstein is one of the last remaining monarchies in Europe where the royal family holds significant political power. The prince lives in the hilltop Vaduz Castle, overlooking the capital, Vaduz. Liechtenstein is also known for its surprising wealth , boasting one of the highest GDPs per capita in the world. Oddly, the country lacks an army, relying on Switzerland for defense.

Vaduz itself is a charming city. Quirky art installations dot the streets, and the local shops offer unique souvenirs, including the coveted Liechtenstein passport stamp, which many visitors seek as a fun memento of their trip.

Additionally, I visited the Vaduz Museum, which offers a deep dive into the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The museum features intriguing exhibits that highlight Liechtenstein's traditions, art, and everyday life, providing valuable insights into this small yet remarkable nation.

I also paid a visit to the Gutenberg castle in the countryside. This castle, Situated on a hillside in Balzers, the southernmost municipality of Liechtenstein, dates back to the High Middle Ages. The structure is positioned approx. 70 meters above the nearby village, atop a hill that has been inhabited since the Neolithic era. Numerous intriguing archaeological findings have been uncovered in the vicinity, including the significant "Mars von Gutenberg" figurine, which stands at just 12 cm and can be seen at the Liechtenstein National Museum

After exploring the city, I took a bus to a nearby cable car station, which whisked me up to the heights of Malbun. This mountain resort area is perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. The cable car ride offered panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, and once I reached the top, I was greeted by stunning vistas that stretched as far as the eye could see. I was also lucky to find a swing atop the mountain which I made full use of ofcourse.

One of the highlights of my trip to Liechtenstein was taking llamas for a walk in the picturesque hills, even though it was raining that day. They have a gentle demeanor despite their size. With a guide leading the way, we strolled through lush green pastures and winding trails, surrounded by mountains shrouded in mist.