Vaduz — Capital of Liechtenstein

Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, is a city of remarkable contrasts: a small Alpine town of around 5,000 people that happens to be one of Europe's most important financial centres. The country it governs — the Principality of Liechtenstein — is the sixth smallest in the world at 160 km², nestled between Switzerland and Austria.

Liechtenstein holds a unique geographical distinction: it is the only doubly landlocked country in the world. To reach the sea from Liechtenstein, you must cross at least two international borders, as both of its neighbours (Switzerland and Austria) are themselves landlocked. Only one other doubly landlocked country exists on Earth — Uzbekistan.

Perched dramatically on the hillside above Vaduz is Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the reigning Prince of Liechtenstein. Unlike many European royal residences, Vaduz Castle is not open to the public — the Prince actually lives there. The ruling family is extraordinarily wealthy, owning the LGT Group (Liechtenstein Global Trust), one of the world's largest private banking organisations. Liechtenstein's GDP per capita is among the highest on the planet.

Liechtenstein disbanded its army in 1868 after its last military engagement in the Austro-Prussian War of 1866. That war produced one of history's most charming military anecdotes: Liechtenstein sent 80 soldiers and all 80 returned safely — along with one extra man, an Austrian liaison officer who had befriended them during the campaign. The army has never been reconstituted.