Western Europe.

GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

160 sq km (61.8 sq miles).

34,294 (2004).

211.6 per sq km.

Vaduz. Population: 5,038 (2002).

Liechtenstein shares borders with Austria and Switzerland and lies between the upper reaches of the Rhine Valley and the Austrian Alps. The principality is noted for its fine vineyards.

The single-chamber assembly, the Landtag, has 25 members directly elected every four years by proportional representation. The sovereign, a hereditary monarch, is head of state with exceptional powers (see History) over the Landtag, the government and the judiciary.

Imperial Principality with a hereditary constitutional monarchy. Principality established in 1719. Head of State: Prince Hans Adam II since 1989. Head of Government: Prime Minister Otmar Hasler since 2001.

German; a dialect of Alemannish is widely spoken. English is also widely spoken.

Christian, predominantly Roman Catholic (78 per cent).

Similar to northwest Europe. Regulations concerning smoking are becoming increasingly strict.

230 volts AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are used.