Günther Meier

Günther Meier was editor-in-chief of the Liechtensteiner Volksblatt. He writes for the Neue Zürcher Zeitung from Liechtenstein.

How the Principality of Liechtenstein came into being

Günther Meier 20.08.2024 The Principality of Liechtenstein has existed for over 300 years. The small country situated between Switzerland and Austria was not established on conquered territory, nor did it emerge from a post-war peace treaty. Instead, it was purchased by the Princely House of Liechtenstein, which gave the nation state its name.

Map of the Principality of Liechtenstein, Johann Jacob Heber, 1721

The plot to kidnap the Pope and take him to Liechtenstein

Günther Meier 21.05.2024 Liechtenstein featured in two 20th century conflicts involving the Vatican. The first was when there was a plan to give the Pope dominion over the Principality. The second was when there was a plot to kidnap the Pope and take him to Liechtenstein.

The Pope almost became head of state in Liechtenstein in 1916.