Liechtenstein

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Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, a principality in western Europe between Switzerland and Austria, is one of the smallest countries in Europe. The rugged foothills of the Rhätikon Mountains, part of the central Alps, form the eastern two-thirds of the country. The Grauspitz is the highest peak, rising to 2,599 meters, and most of the principality lies above 1,800 meters. Evergreen forests and alpine flowers cover the lower slopes of the mountains, and snow covers the bare peaks. The mountain range comprises three major valleys, irrigated by the Samina River. The western part of the principality is covered by the floodplain of the Rhine River, which forms a triangular plain with the Ill River valley to the north. The valley of the river was once a marshy area, but thanks to a drainage canal built in the 1930s, its rich soil is now ideal for agriculture. The country has a spectacular diversity of vegetation. You can find water milfoil and mare's tail, along with reeds, bulrush, bird's-eye primrose and orchids. The woodland is a mixed forest of copper beech, maple, sycamore, sycamore, linden, elm and ash. There is also rich wildlife in Liechtenstein, including Red Deer, Roe Deer, chamois, hares, marmots, blackcocks, pheasants, hazel grouse, partridges, foxes, badgers, martens, polecats, stoats and weasels.