principality

A principality is a territorial political entity that is ruled by a prince. The term can refer to sovereign states in which a prince is the head of state, as well as to smaller domains within larger political structures that are governed by a prince. Principalities historically formed part of the feudal and dynastic systems of medieval and early modern Europe, and they varied in their level of autonomy and recognition by neighboring powers.

In the medieval and early modern context, principalities were often hereditary and could function as independent polities, vassal states, or semi-autonomous regions within larger kingdoms and empires. They were typically governed by a prince or ruling dynast who exercised substantial, though not always absolute, authority. The exact powers of a prince and the constitutional arrangements shaping governance could differ widely from one principality to another.

Today, only a few principalities exist as fully sovereign states. Monaco and Liechtenstein are commonly described as principalities and are both recognized sovereign microstates with reigning princes. Andorra is a co-principality, a unique arrangement in which the heads of state are the Bishop of Urgell and the President of France, and the country is nonetheless referred to as a principality.

Etymology traces the term to Latin principatus, meaning the office or authority of a prince, from principus, meaning chief or foremost. In modern use, the label emphasizes historical rank and ceremonial aspects of governance rather than a strict legal category distinct from other monarchical or territorial units.