Schellenberg Municipal Office Closed for Maria Lichtmess Public Holiday

Municipal Services Temporarily Halted

The municipal administration offices in Schellenberg, one of the eleven municipalities within the Principality of Liechtenstein, were closed on Monday, February 2, 2026. The closure was in observance of Maria Lichtmess, a significant public holiday in the Alpine nation.

Residents requiring administrative services were advised to plan accordingly, as all municipal operations were suspended for the day. The closure aligns with the national observance of this traditional Christian feast day.

Understanding Maria Lichtmess

Maria Lichtmess, known in English as Candlemas, is a Christian holiday celebrated annually on February 2. It holds deep religious significance, commemorating three key events in Christian belief: the presentation of the child Jesus at the Temple, Jesus' first entry into the temple, and the purification of the Virgin Mary.

The name 'Lichtmess' (Light Mass) refers to the tradition of blessing candles on this day, symbolizing Jesus as the 'Light of the World.' Historically, it also marked the end of the Christmas season in some traditions, with nativity scenes often being put away after Candlemas.

Liechtenstein's Observance of Public Holidays

Liechtenstein, a doubly landlocked country nestled between Austria and Switzerland, observes a number of public holidays, many of which are rooted in Catholic tradition. Maria Lichtmess is officially recognized as a National Holiday across the principality. The country's commitment to these traditional observances ensures that public institutions, including municipal offices like those in Schellenberg, close to allow residents to partake in the holiday.