Liechtenstein NationalMuseum

Archaeological finds show that the territory of the present-day Principality of Liechtenstein was already settled 7000 years ago. Since then it has been shaped and influenced by various cultures. Using everyday topics – food and drink, building and living, clothing and traditional costume, items of daily use, jewellery – and the direct juxtaposition of objects, this area of the exhibition shows visitors how the region and its people have developed over time.

The threat of war and changing national rulers meant that in the Middle Ages people longed for protection and security. This area of the permanent exhibition shows how they tried to achieve this – with fortified dwellings and with faith in God.

In the hard life of peasants, festivals were the highlights of the year. Traditions such as bringing the cows down from the grazing pastures in autumn, together with church celebrations, continue to play an important role in Liechtenstein's social life today. This area of the permanent exhibition also gives an insight into the wide variety of hobbies, clubs and societies in Liechtenstein, which are key to balancing out daily work and promoting a feeling of togetherness within the population.

Political life in Liechtenstein today is characterised by a finely balanced relationship between the power of the people and the power of the Prince. This area of the exhibition shows how ruling and the exercise of power have developed in the region since the 17th and 18th centuries – from the origins of Liechtenstein and the abolition of the military to today's democracy and diversity of opinion.

In the Alemannic culture, to which Liechtenstein belongs, working is about more than just earning a living. "Schaffen", as it is called here, implies making the most of the opportunities one receives and thus achieving something respectable. Working is a virtue and a duty, which the farmer and craftsman fulfils just as much as the modern service provider. Migration and communication are the main themes. The new IndustryWorld Liechtenstein, created in 2019, presents the country's leading industrial companies and their history.

Much of Liechtenstein’s territory is today used or shaped by humans. This is why it is more important than ever to protect the natural habitats of as many animals and plants as possible – in the Rhine Valley and the Alps all the way up to 2599 metres above sea level.