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| Seth B. Leonard in Vaduz (October 2019) |
This year, the Principality of Liechtenstein is celebrating three hundred years of statehood. Holy Roman Emperor Karl VI created the Fürstentum Liechtenstein in 1719 for Prince Anton Florian von und zu Liechtenstein (1656-1721), whose family had acquired the domains of the County of Schellenberg and the County of Vaduz, which make up the territories of the modern principality. Therefore, in 1719, tiny Liechtenstein became a sovereign entity within the Holy Roman Empire - and the small Alpine principality has proven itself the ultimate survivor by remaining independent and retaining its monarchy through the tumultuous three centuries since its formation. Indeed, it is the only entity of the Holy Roman Empire which still is in existence.
The principality has been celebrating this special birthday all year, as it notes on the website specifically created for the occasion:
In 2019, Liechtenstein will be celebrating its 300th anniversary throughout the year with a range of events – and warmly invites visitors to discover and explore its history and stunning natural scenery in person.
The jubilee is not just an occasion for the inhabitants of Liechtenstein to reflect upon their own history, but is also attracting the attention of many tourists and visitors. Liechtenstein acquires its name from the reigning Princely Family, and is closely linked to Austria and European history through the Princely House with its over 7 centuries of history.
In the year 1719, the diminutive Alpine monarchy was elevated to the status of an imperial principality, since when it has remained an established part of the European map. While it was still part of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation at the time of its foundation, in 1806 it achieved sovereignty when the Confederation of the Rhine was founded. Having abolished its own army in 1868, the Principality of Liechtenstein survived the turmoil of both World Wars and is today one of only five debt-free states around the globe. In 2019, Liechtenstein will be celebrating its anniversary throughout the year with a range of events – and warmly invites visitors to discover and explore its history and stunning natural scenery in person.
Liechtenstein is a most charming destination. In Vaduz, one can visit the Liechtensteinisches Landes Museum (Liechtenstein National Museum), which hosts a number of exhibits every year, and which also has on display the Liechtenstein crown jewels - well, one should write, a replica of the crown jewel (singular). There is also the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Museum of Fine Arts): this foundation houses a sizeable collection of contemporary and modern art. Also, while driving into Liechtenstein from Switzerland, or while walking along the Städtle in Vaduz, one can catch a glimpse of the Princely Schloß - as it is the private home of the Liechtenstein dynasty, it is naturally closed to the public.
If you happen to find yourself in Vaduz on 15 August, you can join the principality's 30,000-something citizens in marking the country's National Day. According to Liechtenstein's website: "the National Day begins with the State Act held on the lawn in front of Vaduz Castle, including speeches by the Prince and the president of the parliament. The people are then invited to a reception with drinks in the gardens of the castle. National Day is the only day of the year when the gardens are open to the general public. The Princely Family is also present at this reception and enjoys chatting with those present."
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