Bordering Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is one of the 4 smallest countries in Europe and the 6th smallest in the world with an area of 160km2.
One of Prince Hans-Adam II's most lavish purchases was in 2004, when he spent $36 million on a piece of furniture measuring 3.8 meters high and 2.3 meters wide, dating back to the 18th century. It was an ebony Badminton cabinet crafted by 30 craftsmen in Florence over 6 years, decorated with agate and amethyst.
With a population of only about 39,055 people, 55.8% of Liechtenstein's human resources come from neighboring countries such as Switzerland, Austria and Germany. However, for many consecutive years, Liechtenstein has always been in the top 5 countries with the highest GDP per capita globally. Specifically, in 2021, this country's GDP was the 3rd highest in the world with 180,000 USD/person.
Notably, Prince Hans-Adam II of the Principality of Lichtenstein is the richest monarch in Europe. He was born in 1945 in Zurich, Switzerland, and has ruled the small country of Lichtenstein since 1989.
The bulk of his wealth comes from LGT Group, the private bank his family controls. Prince Hans-Adam II had a net worth of $9.2 billion in 2023, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
When Prince Hans-Adam II bought the cabinet, the transaction broke its own record. Previously, the cabinet had been the world's most expensive piece of furniture after selling for $16.59 million in 1990.
The members of the Liechtenstein Royal Family enjoy the trust and love of the people. On the occasion of Staatsfeiertag, Prince Hans-Adam II and his son Alois invite people from all over the country and visitors to Vaduz Palace. People can enjoy beer in the gardens, along with parties and fireworks in the center of the capital on August 15 every year.
TB (summary)