Which country is the smallest of the three sovereign Alpine states?

Liechtenstein is the smallest of the three sovereign Alpine states.

The three independent countries commonly identified as Alpine states are Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Liechtenstein is by far the smallest, covering about 160 square kilometres in the Rhine Valley between Austria and Switzerland.

Although much of the country is mountainous, its western lowlands contain most settlements and economic activity. The eastern side rises into the Alps, including the country’s highest peak, Grauspitz, at 2,599 metres.

Liechtenstein is also Europe’s only country besides Switzerland to use the Swiss franc as its currency. Its close economic relationship with Switzerland includes a customs union, while the principality remains a separate sovereign state.