9 Countries That Start With L

Lesotho (pronounced luh-SOO-too) is nicknamed "Kingdom in the Sky" for its mountainous setting. WynandS / Shutterstock

If you're curious about countries that start with L, the list is shorter than you might expect. In the English language, there are nine countries in the world whose country names begin with the letter L.

These countries span multiple continents, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. Each one has its own geography, culture, and history.

Below is a complete list of countries that start with the letter L along with a brief look at what makes each one unique.

1. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a small landlocked country in Europe located between France, Belgium, and Germany. Despite its modest area, Luxembourg plays an important role in the global economy as a major financial center.

The country is known for its multilingual culture, with Luxembourgish, French, and German commonly spoken. Its strong economy and political stability make it one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

2. Lithuania

Lithuania is a Baltic nation in Northern Europe with a surprisingly rich history. The country was once part of one of the largest states in Europe during the Middle Ages.

After decades under Soviet rule, Lithuania declared independence from the USSR on 11 March 1990. Today it is a modern European country known for its historic cities, culture, and growing technology sector.

3. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a tiny principality located in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria. Although small in area, the country has one of the highest standards of living in Europe.

Liechtenstein is sometimes described as a tax haven because of its financial services industry. Its mountainous landscapes and medieval castles also make it a scenic destination for visitors.

4. Libya

Libya is a large country in North Africa bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with Tunisia, Algeria, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Egypt.

The nation has vast desert regions and significant oil reserves that shape its economy. Libya also has a long history tied to ancient civilizations and Mediterranean trade.

5. Liberia

Liberia sits along the west coast of Africa. The country was founded in the 19th century as a settlement for free Black people from the United States, including formerly enslaved people, resettled in Africa.

This unique origin shaped Liberia's political history and cultural identity. Today the country is known for its tropical landscapes and complex modern history.

6. Lesotho

Lesotho is a landlocked kingdom completely surrounded by South Africa in southern Africa. Because of its mountainous terrain, it is often called the "Kingdom in the Sky."

Sitting at high altitude gives Lesotho dramatic scenery and a cool climate compared with surrounding regions.

7. Lebanon

Lebanon is a Middle Eastern country located along the eastern Mediterranean coast. The nation is widely known for its cultural diversity and long history.

Lebanon's population includes multiple religious communities, including Maronite and Eastern Orthodox Christians, as well as Muslim groups. This diversity has shaped the country's culture and politics for centuries.

8. Latvia

Latvia is another Baltic country in northern Europe located between Estonia and Lithuania. The nation regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Today Latvia is known for its forests, historic architecture, and vibrant culture centered around its capital city, Riga.

9. Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and China. Its landscape includes mountains, forests and the Mekong River.

The country has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Buddhism and centuries of regional trade. Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.