List of Princes of Liechtenstein (The Kalmar Union)

The Liechtenstein family acheived prominence thanks to their close association with the Hapsburg dynasty. From their castle just south of Vienna they amassed a vast collection of territory across Austria, Bohemia and Moravia, most dramatically during the Fifty Years War, during which Lutheran or Hussite lords were stripped of land and power. They were awarded the title of Prince during the conflict.

As the majority of their Moravian holdings were confiscated by Hungary in 1742 Prince Karl Joseph demanded compensation from Emperor Rupert. Needing as much support as he could muster Rupert aquiesced to their entreaties and the Liechtenstein territories were given immediacy.