The Alpine Nation-States

Switzerland

Austria

Lichtenstein

Alpine States

Alpine States – Central Europe

•Dominated by Europe’s backbone, the Alps

•All landlocked

Austria

• Vienna is the largest city in the region• Has a uniform language (German)• Largest nation in the region (both in area

and population)• Richest soil in the region• Most mineral wealth in the region• Yet Switzerland is the leading country in

the region

Austrian Flag

Switzerland• Traditionally neutral

• Still has not joined the European Union

• Lacks natural advantages and resources, but makes up for it with skill

• Sets the international standard in watches, instruments, specialty foods, security, and secretive banking

Flag of Switzerland

Switzerland

Lichtenstein

•A “Microstate”

•Large economy – industry & financial services

•Known for its fairy-tale castles

Lichtenstein

Castles of Lichtenstein