Stadtschrofen

Has anyone ever told you about the time Switzerland accidentally invaded Liechtenstein? It happened in 2007. Around 170 Swiss infantry soldiers took a wrong turn during a training exercise. They wandered right into Liechtenstein without even realizing it. Liechtenstein, by the way, is right next door, practically within shouting distance from where we stand at Stadtschrofen. This peaceful viewpoint offers incredible views. But it also offers a great perspective on Liechtenstein’s unique history and geography. Stadtschrofen is a perfect place to contemplate Liechtenstein’s somewhat precarious position in the world, nestled between larger, more powerful nations. Liechtenstein became an independent principality in 1719, formed from the counties of Vaduz and Schellenberg. It remained part of the Holy Roman Empire until 1806. Then, it briefly joined the Confederation of the Rhine and later the German Confederation before finally achieving full independence in 1866. Stadtschrofen reminds us of Liechtenstein’s resilience and ability to maintain its identity despite its small size. It’s one of the world’s smallest countries, the sixth smallest to be exact. It’s doubly landlocked, meaning it’s surrounded only by landlocked countries. This makes it reliant on its neighbors, Austria and Switzerland, for access to the sea. Imagine living in a country where every trip to the coast requires crossing at least two international borders! From Stadtschrofen, you can appreciate the beauty of the landscape that has shaped Liechtenstein’s history. The Rhine plain below has been a focal point for settlement since ancient times. Yet, Liechtenstein has managed to preserve much of its natural beauty. Today, it’s known for its stunning Alpine scenery, which attracts visitors from all over the world. Perhaps one day, they’ll even outnumber those accidental Swiss invaders!