Luxembourg is a fabulous country, a kingdom with its own characteristics. The convenient location between the Moselle and the Meuse, picturesque natural landscapes, ancient architecture attract lovers of hiking and medieval history. The Grand Duchy is a place where the atmosphere of old and new is organically combined. Chic boutiques, restaurants, numerous high-rise buildings of business centers and banks contrast with narrow cobbled streets, bridges, viaducts and castles. A sufficient number of attractions are concentrated on a small territory of the country so that tourists are "busy" as in short day trips, as well as during weekly tours.

Country Description

Luxembourg is a small independent European state with a preserved monarchy. Luxembourg has always been and remains an influential region of Europe in economic and strategic terms. Today it is a major financial center of international importance.

The flag of Luxembourg is similar to the Dutch, but differs from it in a lighter shade of the lower stripe.

Official full name

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is the official name of the state. The name Lucilinburhuk, translated from Old German, means "little fortress" or "little castle". The name "Luxembourg" appeared during the accession of the Duchy to France under Louis XIV.

Geographic location, capital

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is located in the center of Western Europe, forming a "triangle" between Germany and France and Belgium. The territory of the country consists of two main geographical zones:

• Eslinga in the north;
• Gutland, eastern part occupied by the Moselle Valley.

The area of ​​the country is 2,586 km2. The capital of the Grand Duchy is the city of Luxembourg.

Luxembourg borders Belgium, France and Germany

Language

Luxembourg has three official languages:

• Deutsch,
• French,
• Luxembourgish.

French is more commonly used in government institutions, German is predominant in business circles, and Luxembourgish is spoken in everyday situations.

Interesting fact: in Luxembourg, everyone state languages coexist harmoniously thanks to the education system. Luxembourgish is used in the primary grades of schools, in high school they teach in German, and the last stage of training takes place in French.

Currency

Since 2002, Luxembourg has adopted a single European currency - the euro. You can exchange currency in banks and specialized points. It is most profitable to do this at the bank, but keep in mind that they do not work on weekends and holidays.

Note: dollars can be exchanged at a favorable rate in souvenir shops. Of course, for this you need to make a purchase. Change will be given in euros.

In Luxembourg, there are no problems with cashless payments even in remote parts of the country.

There are no problems with cashless payments in Luxembourg even in remote parts of the country

Religion

The predominant religion in the country is Roman Catholic (97%). There are Protestant and Jewish communities in the big cities.

The local time

The entire territory of the state is in the same time zone: UTC+02:00. The difference with Moscow is +2 hours.

The most touristic regions and cities

Despite the small area, tourism in Luxembourg is multifaceted, and destinations largely depend on the area:

The Oesling region is a wooded region in the north of Luxembourg, which is especially attractive for travelers. Here is the most high point countries - Kneiff Hill (560 m). On the slopes of the hills there are picturesque villages, rivers and lakes. The climate in this area is harsher than in other parts of the country. The main cities of the region - Wiltz, Vianden - are known for their castles.

The northern part of Luxembourg has picturesque villages, rivers and lakes

The district of Gutland is located in the south and in the center of the Duchy. Together with the capital, the district occupies most of the country's territory. This area includes the following tourist cities and territories:

• Luxembourg is beautiful and busy city with thousand years of history. Churches, bridges, palaces, parks - all these are the main attributes of the Upper City. Behind the Petrus River, the Lower City begins. Here are quarters with modern buildings and industrial facilities;
  Luxembourg - beautiful city with a rich history
• The Moselle Valley impresses with its size and variety of landscapes. Tourists are attracted by the region's winemaking traditions. The valley is located 40 km north of the village of Schengen, from which the territory of the famous Moselle vineyards begins, where Riesling, Rivaner, and Traminer varieties grow. The valley is quiet provincial town Remich;
  Luxembourg is famous for its white wines.
• north of the Moselle Valley is the Mullerthal (Müllerthal) region - "Little Switzerland of Luxembourg" (La Petite Suisse). The territory got its name due to the colorful landscape: deep gorges, bizarre stones covered with moss and lichens. The main city - Echternach - is one of the oldest cities in Luxembourg.
  In the Müllerthal, tourists are impressed by colorful landscapes.

The most famous sights of Luxembourg

A lot of architectural, cultural, historical and natural attractions are concentrated on the territory of the duchy. Both in the center of the country and in remote corners there are interesting places for visiting. A significant number of architectural objects are located in the capital of the Duchy:

1. Casemates du Bock are a labyrinth of underground corridors that were built by the Spaniards under a rock ledge in 1644. In different years, slaughterhouses and bakeries were located here, and in war time casemates were used as bomb shelters. Today, these unique buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting is possible from April to October. Ticket price: 4 € for adults, 2 € for children.
   
   Bock casemates stretched in the depths of the Le Bock cliff under the once-existing Luxembourg fortress for 23 km

The Gëlle Fra obelisk towers over Place de la Constitution. This monument, known as the "Golden Lady", was erected in memory of Luxembourger volunteers who died in battle during the First World War.

The 21-meter obelisk of Gelle-Fra is crowned by a gilded bronze statue of a woman with an extended laurel wreath

On Roosevelt boulevard is Cathedral Notre-Dame, whose architecture combines the Gothic style of the 17th century and Renaissance elements added during rebuilding and restoration. The building houses a miraculous statue of the patroness of the city - Our Lady. Every year, pilgrims from different parts of the country come to the cathedral to celebrate Easter.

Notre Dame Cathedral houses many sculptures and the crypt-tomb of the Grand Dukes of Luxembourg

Palace of the Grand Dukes (Palais Grand Ducal) - the official residence of the ruling dynasty. Heads of state who come to Luxembourg on a visit stop here, numerous receptions are held. For tourists, the palace is open in the summer from July 17 to August. Entrance fee: 7 € for adults, 3.50 € for children.

During the German occupation in World War II, the Palace of the Grand Dukes was used by the Nazis as a music hall and tavern.

The exposition of the National Museum of History and Art covers the history of Luxembourg from the 13th century to the present. Here you can see archaeological artifacts, ancient coins, maps of fortifications, paintings by local artists. Entrance ticket price: 5 € adult, 3 € pension, children under 18 years old - free of charge.

National Museum history and art is housed in a purpose-built contemporary modernist building

In the Museum of the History of the City of Luxembourg (Musée d'Histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg) you can get acquainted in detail with the history of the building of the city according to reconstruction models. There are also temporary exhibitions illustrating the everyday life of the townspeople both in ancient times and in modern times. Entry price: 5 € for adults, 3 € for children.

The Municipal Museum of Luxembourg History has a powerful multimedia network through which thousands of videos and audio documents can be accessed

Casino Luxembourg - exhibition space contemporary art located in the city center (opposite the Gelle Fra obelisk). The expositions occupy two floors. The ground floor houses a library and computers with access to an electronic database. Above are the artists' studios. The repertoire of exhibitions is constantly changing. Free admission.


Once in the building of the casino "Luxembourg" was located the famous Casino Bourgeois

In the Moselle Valley, the following places are popular with tourists:

1. Saint-Martin (St. Martin) - the main wine cellar in the city of Remich. On the tour you can learn a lot of interesting things about the traditions of local winemaking, in particular, about the production of sparkling wines. Visiting is possible from April to October. Excursion price: from 4.90 €.
   During the tour in the cellar of St. Martin, you can taste the famous sparkling wine
2. The Museum of Folklore and Viticulture (MuséeFolklorique et Vincole) attracts tourists to the village of Bech-Kleinmacher (2 km south of Remich). Known as A Possen, this small stone building was owned by a local vintner named Post.
   You can immerse yourself in the daily life of a family of winemakers of the 18th and 19th centuries at the Museum of Folklore and Viticulture (MuséeFolklorique et Vincole)
3. The State Wine Museum (Musée du Vin) is located 15 km south of Remich, in the picturesque village of Henin. Visiting is possible from April to October. The rest of the time - on request.
   At the Museum of Wine (Musée du Vin) exhibited a large number of equipment for artisanal wine production
4. The village of Schengen is the gateway to Europe. Previously, Schengen was called the Moselle Gate. wine road. Now the area is associated with important historical event- the signing of the Schengen Agreements on June 14, 1985. The member countries of the agreement (Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) thus contributed to the gradual elimination of controls on their internal borders. Now there is a monument and a museum.
   Commemorative plates on the Place de la Concorde in the village of Schengen attract tourists: many seek to take a photo in this historical place

If your trip is focused on the Müllerthal area, visit the following attractions:

1. In the city of Echternach is located the Benedictine abbey - a large architectural complex XVIII century. Construction starts from market square(Place du Marché) and stretches almost to the banks of the Sauer. Now there is a city lyceum and an abbey museum (Musée de l'Abbaye) with a collection of Roman mosaics, stone fragments of an ancient abbey of the 7th century and medieval manuscripts.
   In the Basilica of St. Willibrord (Basilika Iechternach) you can see the frescoes of the XIV century
2. In the city of Vianden is the famous castle of the same name (Château de Vianden). It was built on the site of a Roman fortification from the 4th century. The oldest part of the castle dates back to the 11th century. It was periodically completed, so the architecture contains elements of the Renaissance and Romanesque style. In the castle, you can see the rooms decorated in a medieval spirit, including the Ducal and Banquet halls. The dungeons where the prisoners were kept are also open to the public. Numerous entertaining interactive programs are organized on the territory of the Castle, a visit to which costs 7 € for an adult and 2 € for children. The schedule can be found on the official website.
   
   Vianden Castle and surroundings can be photographed from the funicular when climbing the nearest hill
3. While in Vianden, you can look into the Victor Hugo Literary Museum (Musée Littéraire Victor Hugo). The museum is located in a small house on the river bank. Opposite, on the parapet of the bridge is a beautiful bust of Victor Hugo. Free admission. The museum exists on membership fees, which are 15 € for adults, 8 € for schoolchildren and students. In the museum and on its official website, you can buy books by Victor Hugo and various souvenirs depicting the writer.
   The 7 rooms of the Victor Hugo House-Museum in Vianden recreate the environment in which the French novelist lived and worked
4. The ancient castle of Bourscheid (Château de Bourscheid) is located near the village of Bourscheid in the northeastern part of Luxembourg. The building stands on a sheer stone ledge overlooking the surrounding farmland and the River Sur (Sauer). The central part of the castle is the oldest, and the whole complex is surrounded by a wall with round towers (XIV century). Ticket price: 5 € for adults, 4 € for students and pensioners, children under 5 years old - free of charge.
   Bourscheid Castle is located on a hill, whose height is 380 meters above sea level
5. To the west of Esch is Lac de la Haute Sûre, the main reservoir of the country and Nature Park Haut-sur (Parc Naturel de la Haute Sûre). For visitors to the park, there are many leisure options: walking, viewing cultural monuments, water sports. On the territory there is a building of a former textile factory, where several looms are kept in working order. The oldest car dates back to 1851.
   Square national park Haute-sur is 28,000 ha

When is the best time to go to Luxembourg

The tourist season in Luxembourg lasts from April to August. It is during this period that museums and castles are open to the public. In the remaining months, many objects are either not available to tourists at all, or a request must be made. When planning your trip, also consider the calendar of events. Many interesting festivals and holidays are held annually in the country:

1. On the Tuesday after Holy Trinity Day, a dance procession takes place in Echternach in honor of St. Willibrord. This unique procession is included in the List of Intangible cultural heritage Humanity UNESCO.
   St. Willibrord's Day is celebrated on the Tuesday after Holy Trinity Day
2. In the spring (March-April), the Musical Spring festival is held. At this time, musicians from all over the world come to Luxembourg.
3. Emeshen - original festival of folklore and pottery takes place on Bright Monday. This is one of the most fun holidays, accompanied by noisy fairs and exhibitions and sales of traditional crafts.
4. June 23 - birthday of the Grand Duke, magnificent National holiday. The event includes a torchlight procession in front of the Grand Duke's Palace, fireworks and festivities.
5. At the beginning of August, the Medieval Festival takes place in Vianden . Processions, festivities, tournaments and street performances take place here.
   Vianden Medieval Festival held in early August
6. In late August and early September, it is worth visiting the Schobermesse fair with interesting attractions, entertainment and food tents.
7. In August, the funny Schueberführer festival takes place in the capital of the duchy. This is a kind of march of sheep, when shepherds in wide-brimmed hats lead decorated rams along the central streets to the music.
   Fountain "Sheep March" in Luxembourg dedicated to the national festival
8. At the end of summer, the wine festival season begins in the Moselle Valley.
9. In November-December, the bright Winter Lights festival takes place, during which a Christmas market opens on the Armory Square in Luxembourg.
   Luxembourg cities are beautifully decorated for Christmas

For lovers of gastronomic tourism, you can take advantage of the "Resto Days" promotion, which allows you to try popular dishes at the same price both in a cozy little-known cafe and in a restaurant of the "highest guild". In 2018, Resto Days are scheduled for July 7–18. To participate, you must register on the site.

Short term travel options

For short trips, it is important to determine the desired places and think over the route. At the main tourist office of the capital (place Guillaume II, 30) you can get free maps and brochures with descriptions of attractions, as well as a program of events for the week.

Depending on the travel time, you can choose one of the following travel options:

1. For one day of stay, it is worth seeing the main sights of the city of Luxembourg. This option is relevant if the visit is in transit. To save money, purchase one of the tourist discount cards. There are special cards with a one-day validity period. So, with the Stater Museekart, you can visit the main attractions for free: city museums and Casemates Bock.
2. Three days of stay in the Duchy provide an opportunity not only to admire the ancient buildings and castles, but also to make a "wine trip" through the Moselle Valley.
3. In 5 days of traveling around the country, explore unique nature while hiking in the Müllerthal region. Breathtaking cliffs, stream valleys and panoramas create an amazing atmosphere. Depending on the chosen route, the path may pass by medieval fortress or past the city of Echternach.
4. A week tour of Luxembourg is a good opportunity to combine camping trip, visiting ancient castles and local restaurants. For lovers of history, there are special excursion programs: "The Battle of the Bulge" in the castle of Cleurot, "Resistance to the fascist occupation" (tour of memorable places in Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg and Wiltz) and others.

Video: Luxembourg walking route

What to see when traveling with a child

In every corner of Luxembourg you will find a large number of places and activities suitable for visiting with children. The Grand Duchy has an impressive number of playgrounds and areas outdoors and indoors, both for a relaxing holiday as well as exciting adventures.

Those who want to combine a trip with a visit to the zoo can head to the Parc Merveilleux in Bettambourg. The picturesque Gaalgebierg park, located next to large playgrounds and the beautiful municipal park in Esch-sur-Alzette, also definitely worth a visit with children.

Little travelers of all ages can have a good time exploring the old mines in the south of Luxembourg or underground labyrinths Casemates. Those who want to reach the sky will be delighted to try the chairlift cable car Vianden. Many castles and museums offer special activities for children.

Other fun activities await children and their parents at Vitarium in Roost - magical world dedicated to milk. Here you can try out 45 interactive zones, 3-d attractions, take part in culinary master classes.

Video: Pirate ship in the municipal park

Photo gallery: tourist maps

Forests, mostly beech and oak, occupy more than a third of the territory of Luxembourg picturesque city Vianden is surrounded by green wooded hills in the valley of the river Ur Luxembourg is located at an altitude of 316 meters above sea level

One of the smallest states in the world, called the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is located in the European west. It is closed between Belgium, France and Germany. Its name is of German origin. More than 576 thousand people live in Luxembourg.

The total area of ​​the country is slightly larger 2586 sq. km. The state is a member of major international organizations. It has a long and difficult history. There are many interesting sights that attract tourists from many countries of the world.

That's what they call walking route near the building of the National Archives. It allows you to admire great views valleys flowing through the city rivers and cityscapes. It is also called "the most beautiful balcony in Europe." From the Bok rock, the boulevard descends to the citadel of the Holy Spirit.

Here you can also see the Church of St. Michael, an old Dominican monastery. A wonderful panorama of the valley and the houses of the Lower City opens from here.

Location: Chemin de la Corniche.

Among the oldest bridges that connect both parts of the city is the Crisberg Viaduct. It is also called the old viaduct. It was built in 1859 and is a large stone bridge over the rivers Petrus and Alzet.

This is one of more than a hundred bridges in the city. It leads to the station area, where there are many offices of well-known companies, administrative buildings. Here you can see the station with the original tower, the building of the state savings bank, see the panorama beautiful park in the Petrus River valley.

Location: Kirchberg.

This is the name of the historical center of the capital of this dwarf state. It has narrow winding streets lined with gothic-style houses. They can only be reached on foot. Here is the palace of the Grand Duke with graceful turrets. Its beautiful facade is made in the Moorish style. This part of the city is distinguished by the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city court building, the Saint-Michel Cathedral, the National Theater and other memorable places. On the territory of the Upper City there are also casemates and a Jesuit college.

The building originally housed the town hall. It housed foreign rulers during the occupation. After the end of the last World War, it became the official residence of the Luxembourg monarchs. Protocol events are held in its richly decorated rooms.

The Ballroom is the venue for receptions and banquets. The yellow room of the palace is used for congratulations by the Grand Duke of the citizens of the country on the upcoming Christmas.

Location: Rue de l'Eau - 32.

Once there was a powerful fortress that protected the east of the country. It is built on a hill 35 meters high in the shape of a square. It was protected by defensive walls and a moat with water. In the XII century, a watchtower was erected here.

Over time, the castle began to fall into decay, which in 1850 did not prevent the government from declaring it a historical monument. In the 20th century, a partial restoration took place, and the ruins of the building were opened to the public. Every year it beautiful place visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists. Today the castle is owned by the state.

Location: Beaufort, Rue du Chateau - 24.

In memory of the two thousand inhabitants of tiny Luxembourg who died in the First World War, this monument was erected in the center of the capital. It is known that the Luxembourgers, in order to fight the German troops, crossed the border and fought the enemy in the ranks of the French army. In the center of the monument is a 21-meter granite stele, on top of which is a gilded sculpture of a woman with a laurel wreath. She is called the "golden frau". Below are two symbolic soldier figures cast in bronze.

Location: Place de la Constitution, 1478.

The bridge named after the Luxembourg monarch was built at the very beginning of the last century. It serves as a continuation of the Royal Boulevard. It is a national symbol and the largest stone arch bridge on the planet. It is 153 meters long, 42 meters high and 16 meters wide. The span of the largest arch is over 85 meters. On the elegant silhouette of the bridge over the Petrus River, a wonderful panorama opens up from the city. In the evening, this effect is enhanced by its interesting illumination.

Location: Pont Adolphe.

The division of the city into Upper and Lower is due to two rivers flowing through it. Called Grund, the Lower City has modern look. Here are concentrated numerous administrative buildings, banking institutions. This part is also known for breweries.

Many high-rise buildings of the last years of construction contrast with medieval quarters and fortress walls. Here are attractions such as Eternal flame at the monument of Solidarity, the city hall, the Waldbilig chapel and others.

Grand Duchess Charlotte ruled Luxembourg from 1919-1964. Here she is deeply honored and loved. She is depicted standing in a draped stole with a necklace around her neck and a beautiful hairdo. She is remembered as a wise ruler who gave up the throne in favor of her son.

The people are grateful to her for the good deeds she has done for the country. The monument is set on a low pedestal, at the foot of which there is always a large number of fresh flowers. An expression of love for the Duchess is carved on the stone.

Location: Place de Clairefontaine - 6.

Residents of Luxembourg often call it Knudeler, in memory of the monks whose abbey was located here until the 19th century. In the center of the square is an equestrian monument to Duke Wilhelm. After 1830, he simultaneously served as Grand Duke of Luxembourg and King of the Netherlands. On the square there is a classical style town hall and a small fountain with sculptural image foxes. The square is also notable for its small market with delicious strawberries.

Location: Place Guillaume II.

In the 17th century, these casemates were built inside the Le Bock rock and stretched for 23 kilometers. This is a system of mysterious passages, defensive emplacements and prison cells. Some of the passages lead to old houses. Here, during air raids, the population hid from bombardments.

At a depth of forty meters it was quite safe. In places here at a height of a hundred meters you can go to the surface and admire the magnificent scenery. There is a museum in one of the dungeons.

Location: Montée de Clausen - 10, Casemates du Bock,.

The Luxembourg City Hall was built in 1830, and is a two-story building designed in the style of classicism. The building is decorated with bronze figures of lions. Its corners are beautifully lined with artificial stone. The architecture of the building has not changed for two centuries. It is located in the central part of the city on the square named after Guillaume II. There is also a monument to William the Second of the Netherlands. The building is currently used as a hotel.

Location: Place Guillaume II.

This graceful and amazingly beautiful temple combines elements of late Gothic and Renaissance. The interiors, made in the 19th century, combine sophistication of decoration and Gothic austerity. Here is the tomb of the Luxembourg monarchs, the sarcophagus of the King of Bohemia I. Blind.

The architectural appearance of the temple successfully combines majestic choirs and sculptures. In 1848, the temple was named the Cathedral of Our Lady of Luxembourg, who is the patroness of the city.

Location: Rue Notre Dame, 2240 Luxembourg.

Her route begins in the Schengen area, which gave its name to an international agreement that makes it easier to visit European states. The wine trail stretches along the Moselle River bordering Germany for 42 kilometers. The banks of the river are famous for their vineyards.

On the Luxembourg side, wines are produced that are not inferior to German ones in their aroma and richness. The trail is marked and allows tourists to easily get acquainted with the mass of wine cellars and distilleries.

So it was named after the first chief of the fort, Baron von Tüngen. The impregnable citadel was built in 1732. It was surrounded by ditches filled with water. Communication with the fortress was carried out through a 170-meter stone corridor,

The fort was destroyed in 1867 under the terms of the London Treaty of non-intervention in military conflicts. Only three towers with acorn-shaped roofs and fragments of the foundation remained from it. A fortress museum was built on the site of the fort's casemates.

Location: 5 Park Drai Eechelen.

Romanesque and Baroque are intricately combined in this Catholic church. It is considered one of the oldest religious shrines in the city. In ancient times, it was the palace chapel of Count Siegfried, which has repeatedly changed its appearance.

In 1688, under Louis XIV, the church acquired its final appearance. During the turbulent years of the French Revolution, it was the only undamaged building in the city. At the beginning of the 21st century, repairs were made here.

Location: Rue Sigefroi, 2536.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a small country in Western Europe. High level of security, pleasant temperate climate, many attractions for every taste, original local kitchen and comfortable hotels - all this can provide its guests with Luxembourg.

The ancient quarters of the capital, as well as the ancient castles of the state, such as Vianden, Larochette and Beaufort, will appeal to lovers of antiquity. Luxembourg Switzerland and the Haute-Sur National Park offer tourists to spend their holidays actively, and at the same time admire the amazing natural beauties.

For tourists who prefer organized excursions, it will be interesting to visit historical or art museums. Tours to the Moselle Valley will reveal the secret of the production of world famous wines.

Also definitely worth a try national cuisine, the most original dish of which is roast hare. As a souvenir, something tasty is usually brought from Luxembourg - sweets, Ardennes ham, chocolate or local wine.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in Luxembourg?

The most interesting and Beautiful places, photos and a short description.

The Alzette River divides the territory of Luxembourg into Upper and Lower Towns. The old quarters and fortifications, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, are located in Upper Luxembourg. Here you can climb the wall of one of fortifications, or visit the Bock casemates, which are well preserved and open to tourists.

A popular and lively place in Luxembourg, Place Guillaume II is located on the site of a Franciscan monastery that was destroyed in 1829. In the center of the square, Duke Guillaume II is immortalized on horseback. On weekends, there is a market on the square, and on holidays a stage for performances is set up here.

The main active residence of the Luxembourg Grand Dukes is Colmar-Berg Berg Castle. This building was the residence of the ruling governors in the 19th century, but at the end of World War II, the castle had to be restored. Since 1964, the Berg residence has again become the home of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

The Moselle River is one of the main rivers in Luxembourg, its valley is a wine-growing region. World famous wines and liqueurs are produced here. Also in the Moselle valley is a popular a tourist route"Wine Trail", following which you can visit distilleries, wine cellars and tasting rooms.

In the very center of Upper Luxembourg, on Constitution Square, there is a famous military monument "Golden Lady" 21 meters high. This building was erected in 1923 to commemorate those brave citizens of the city who volunteered for the Luxembourg armed forces during the First World War.

One of the most beautiful European buildings, Vianden Castle, is located in the picturesque town of the same name. At one time, the city was visited by Victor Hugo and Elizabeth II. The local castle was built between the 11th and 14th centuries, and over its long history, it has experienced many destructions. In 1977 Vianden Castle was finally restored and opened to tourists.

The most visited place in Luxembourg is the amusement park Merveille. It is located near Bettambur and is open to the public from April to October. There are many children's entertainment attractions and a small zoo. Merveille also hosts various fairy tale performances.

Although the Mamer Castle was built in the distant 10th century, even today this building is useful. The administrative authorities of the commune of Mamer are located here. The castle is located in the very center of the city on Independence Square and includes four buildings that make up a single architectural ensemble.

Museum located in the southwestern part of Luxembourg City public transport, the first exhibits of which began to be collected back in the 60s. Today the collection consists of restored tram cars, a copy of a horse carriage and two buses. Also exhibited here are examples of service uniforms, travel tickets, documents and photographs.

A small area in the east of the country got its name from the similarity of the local landscape with the Swiss mountains. The rocks of Luxembourg Switzerland were created from sandstone back in the Ice Age. Several picturesque rivers flow in this area, and there is also oldest city Luxembourg Echternach.

One of the most elegant bridges in the country, as well as the national symbol of Luxembourg. This building, the first stone of which was laid in 1900 by the Grand Duke Adolf himself, connects the Upper and Lower cities. In the evenings, the arches of the Adolf Bridge are decorated with illuminations.

The small town of Larochette is surrounded by rocky slopes, on one of which there is an ancient castle of the 11th century. Since the 13th century, a large family of von Fels, the standard-bearers of Luxembourg, lived here. In 1565, the castle of Larochette burned down in a big fire and for a long time no one lived in it. After the restoration work, the castle was opened to tourists.

The main church of the capital, the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Luxembourg, is located in the southern part of the city. The building was built in the 17th century as a Jesuit church, but a century later the cathedral was transferred to the Luxembourg parish. Externally, the church is made in the Gothic style, and the interior decoration has features of the Renaissance. A miraculous wooden image of the Mother of God with the baby Jesus in her arms is kept here.

In the town of Walferdange there is a castle of the same name, built in 1824. Grand Duke Wilhelm I built it as a stud farm for breeding horses, and his son Wilhelm II turned the building into royal residence. Now the castle houses one of the campuses of the University of Luxembourg. In addition to the castle in Walferdange, you can see a Roman villa and an underground conduit.

The fortress "Three Acorns" is located in the park of the same name in the south-eastern part of the city. Once the towers of this fortress were part of a powerful fort built in 1732 to defend the city. In 1867 the fortress was completely destroyed. After restoration, the Tüngen Museum, dedicated to the history of this building, is located within the walls of the fortress.

Created in 1999 national park Haute-Sur is located northwest of Essling. Plants and animals are protected here, as well as the purity of water in the local lake and reservoir. In Haute-Sure, you can go in for water sports, see local architectural monuments, and also stay in comfortable houses for a few days.

The tunnels and chambers that make up the Bok casemates built in the 17th century are under the protection of UNESCO. They are located in the very center of Luxembourg, in the thickness of the Le Bock cliff under the now destroyed Luxembourg fortress. A tour of the casemates includes a visit to the archaeological crypt, where the most interesting local finds are exhibited.

The small town of Mondorf-les-Bains, located in the southeast of Luxembourg, has been famous for its thermal springs since the beginning of the 19th century. Mild local climate and healing mineral springs, the temperature of which is always kept within 25 degrees, attract many tourists from all over the world. It treats various diseases of the internal organs, as well as rheumatism.

19. Palace of the Grand Dukes

The building of the Palace of the Grand Dukes was built in the 16th century, when a big explosion of a powder warehouse destroyed almost the entire Upper Town. Initially, the palace was used for administrative purposes, and in 1890, Grand Duke Adolf announced this building as his residence. Today the palace is used as an office for official receptions and audiences.

Beaufort Castle is located in the town of the same name in the east of the country. In the 11th century, on the site of the current castle, there was a simple defensive fortress, which later turned into a powerful fortification. Today, the Beaufort prison with an equipped torture chamber is offered for inspection, as well as main tower castle, which offers an excellent view of the city.

Most ancient city Luxembourg is famous for its abbey, founded by the Benedictine Willibrord in the 7th century. The Germans retreating in 1944 destroyed the entire monastery complex, after which it was rebuilt. Echternach Abbey is known all over the world for its annual dance procession.

The largest castle in Luxembourg rises above the River Sur near Ettelbruck. The first mention of the castle dates back to the 10th century. Subsequently, the building was rebuilt more than once, and at the beginning of the 19th century, due to the death of the owner, the castle began to collapse. In 1936, Bourscheid was recognized as state property, and after the reconstruction, which began in 1972, the castle was opened to tourists.

The butterfly garden was first opened in 1989. Located in Grevenmacher, the wine region of Luxembourg, this garden covers an area of ​​more than 600 m2 and attracts many tourists from all over the world every year. In addition to butterflies, of which there are more than 50 species, in the garden you can see chameleons, bees and turtles. The garden is open to the public from April to October.

Grand Duchy of Luxembourg located in Western Europe, bordering Belgium, France and Germany. The title of its ruler occupies an intermediate position between the "simple" duke and the king, hence the pompous name of this small state with a population of just over 500 thousand people.

Luxembourg originates from the small fortification Lutzeburg, which was built during the time of the ancient Romans. It was then taken over by the Franks and became part of Charlemagne's empire. In 963, Count Siegfried buys these lands, builds a castle on the site of the fortification, later called Luxembourg. In 1354 the county became a duchy.

In a series of endless wars Duchy of Luxembourg neighbors could not share. It was part of the Holy Roman Empire, was captured by Spain, France, was part of the German Union. And finally, in 1867, following the results of the London Conference, it finally became an independent state.

Luxembourg - walled city

Luxembourg It was no coincidence that the German Union aroused great interest: after Gibraltar it was the most powerful European fortress. The Prussian garrison was evicted only in 1866 at the request of France, but during both World Wars Germany invariably seized the duchy, despite its neutral status. Therefore, the main sights of Luxembourg These are his fortresses and castles.

The capital of the duchy itself was one large fortress, the remains of which have been preserved in its historical center- Upper town. Defensive power emanates from the casemates, which are many kilometers long corridors and tunnels in the rock of La Bock. Their laying began during the period of Spanish possession in 1644, when the first bastions rose over the Petryuss River.

The fortress “Three Acorns”, which received such a peculiar name because of the gilded figurines of acorns placed on its towers, also managed to partially survive.

This fortification was erected in 1732, a deep ditch was dug around its walls, and it was possible to get inside only through a 170-meter tunnel. After the demolition of the fortress walls in 1867, only three towers with acorns remained, which had been abandoned for a long time. In 1990, they were reconstructed and access to the museums located there was opened.

What's behind the walls?

The upper city is a museum open sky, which presents all history of Luxembourg. Its heart is the square named after the Grand Duke Willem II (aka Wilhelm II and Guillaume II). During his reign, reforms began that pulled Luxembourg out of a protracted crisis. In memory of these merits, an equestrian statue of Willem II was erected here.

The second, "folk" name of the square is Knudler (the knot on the Franciscan's belt). In the Middle Ages, there was a monastery on this site, in the church of which, for some reason, gunpowder was stored. In 1554, it was struck by lightning, and there was a grandiose fire that destroyed almost the entire Upper Town. It was necessary to rebuild not only the temple, but also the City Hall, which in 1890 became the Palace of the Grand Dukes.

It has been rebuilt several times, because its architecture is a mixture of the Flemish style with the French Renaissance. During the Second World War, the Germans plundered the Palace and turned it into a place of entertainment. Then Duchess Charlotte, who returned from exile, had to restore her residence.

Now in this rather modest building with a lone guardsman standing at the entrance, official receptions are held, negotiations are underway. And annually from the Yellow Room of the Palace country Luxembourg receives congratulations on the coming Christmas from his Grand Duke.

Notre Dame Cathedral and the Golden Frau

Next to Willem II Square is the main temple of the Catholic diocese - the Cathedral of Our Lady of Luxembourg. It was built in 1613-1621 by the Jesuits, but the brotherhood did not have a chance to admire it for long. graceful beauty: after 150 years they were deported from the country.

The church was first renamed in honor of St. Nicholas, then St. Teresa. And in 1870, after the visit of Pope Pius IX, she became Cathedral, then the image of the Virgin Comforter appeared in it, which Luxembourg city considers her heavenly patroness. In 1935-1939 the temple was restored and is now considered one of the best examples of late Gothic.

The composition is dedicated to the memory of the Luxembourgers who fought during the First World War against the German invaders. In 1940, the Nazis dismantled the Golden Frau, and she disappeared without a trace. It was discovered many years later under the stands of the stadium, and in 1984 the monument was returned to its place.

One of the symbols of the capital of Luxembourg is the Adolf Bridge, which connects the Upper and Lower cities.

Built at the beginning of the 20th century in just 3 years, it was named after the Grand Duke who laid the first stone of its foundation. At that time, it was the largest arch bridge in the world, until in 1905 this title passed to its "brother" in Germany.

Luxembourg - land of castles

What to see in Luxembourg other than its capital? These are, of course, castles scattered throughout the duchy.

The main one is Berg Castle in Colmar-Berg, since 1848 the official residence of the King of the Netherlands, since 1890 - the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. Willem II bought it from the wealthy Pasquier family, then the Grand Duke Adolf moved into it with his family.

At the beginning of the 20th century old lock demolished and a new one built. When the economic crisis began in the 30s, Berg and the Capital Palace were transferred by His Royal Highness to the treasury for compensation of 40 million francs. During the Second World War, the castle was abandoned, then it was restored, and in 1964 the ducal family returned there.

No less famous is Vianden Castle, located in city ​​of the same name 40 km from the capital. It was built for the counts of Vianden in the 11th-14th centuries on the remains of a Roman fortress, and in 1407 it became the property of Orange-Nassau. At the end of the 19th century, Vianden became too expensive for the owners, and they began to sell it for building materials. In 1977, at the direction of the duke, the castle was transferred to the state, restored and became a monument of European significance.

The castle of the 10th century in the city of Mamer was also destroyed to the ground, but in 1830 the chief of the city police built a new one, fenced with 2-meter walls, on the site of its ruins. Until 1995, the owners of the castle and adjacent lands changed until the administration of the local commune bought it. In 2002, after the completion of restoration work, the castle became the Town Hall, where the administration moved.

Bourscheid Castle, the largest in the duchy, was also founded in the 10th century. During the Middle Ages, it was constantly completed and expanded.

In 1512, after the death of Lord Bourscheid, the castle was divided by 3 "indirect" heirs, after which it fell into disrepair, and at the beginning of the 19th century it completely collapsed. In 1936 he was recognized national treasure, but the war prevented the restoration. Only in 1972, reconstruction began in Bourscheid, which continues to this day, but the castle is already open to the public.

Abbey of the Holy Trinity

30 km from Luxembourg is the abbey of the Holy Trinity, one of the oldest in the country. It was founded in 698 by the Benedictines, led by Bishop Willibrord, who was canonized after his death. The abbey flourished until the end of the 18th century, when revolutionary French soldiers invaded it, dispersed the monks, requisitioned the book collection, and adapted the basilica for a pottery workshop. After 100 years, the inhabitants of Echternach bought the temple, and services resumed in it. In 1944, the retreating Nazis blew up the basilica, but 9 years later it was completely restored.

Little Luxembourg performed a great miracle, preserving its language and statehood. He deserved the atmosphere of serenity and tranquility reigning in the green and perfectly clean streets of his cities.

Luxembourg is a city of contrasts and a tiny state. Along with palaces made of glass and concrete, small old houses with vegetable gardens, flower beds and front gardens with roses huddle in the country. In a word, luxury country. One day is quite enough for inspection, although this statement is very controversial. Luxembourg is never enough!

While walking around the city, it is striking that there are clouds of Russian speakers on the streets tourist groups. We've come here. But even more Afro-Luxembourgers (or Luxembourgers). They can be found in almost any cafe or restaurant. They sit, drink coffee and chat. I wonder when they work? By the way, it’s not so easy to dine at lunchtime in a Luxembourg restaurant, all tables in restaurants are occupied, especially in the center, with the exception of McDonald’s and Chinese restaurants.

View from one of the balconies.

The frequency is perfect everywhere, the streets seem to be licked and washed with shampoo. If you are lucky enough to get to Luxembourg during the fair, you will be pleasantly surprised by the abundance and variety of cheeses. Cheese is a product made from milk, which is produced by cows that quietly walk around the Luxembourgish, awesome green manicured lawns. And the lawns are all on the mountains, and between them are tall, like fairy-tale bridges. Maybe that's why Luxembourg is called the balcony of Europe. These balconies offer amazing views!
Residents of Luxembourg each know five languages. They can be envied. But we tried a couple of times to talk to the bus driver, but he pretended that he did not know English and did not speak to us. We didn't believe him at all.

The Palace of the Duke of Luxembourg is guarded by a guard of honor consisting of one guard.

The Shier River, where you can fish with a license.

Obelisk in Luxembourg.

On the obelisk in the center of Luxembourg there is an inscription: "We want to remain who we are." Once upon a time, a Dutch governor was arguing with a Prussian commander, standing on one of the Luxembourg hills, who were Luxembourgers, Prussians, or Dutch. For the Luxembourgers, it was already clear then that they were neither one nor the other, they were Luxembourgers.

Luxembourg Notre Dame.

Duchess Charlotte, adored by all Luxembourgers, rests here, thanks to whom the country has become the richest country in Europe. The secret to this prosperity is simple. Charlotte married her daughter to a wealthy Middle Eastern emir, who gave her valuable advice: make Luxembourg an offshore banking zone with very low interest rates on loans plus complete anonymity of depositors. It's really simple. Learn. With a population of half a million people in Luxembourg, soon there was nowhere to put money in the country.

In these Luxembourg catacombs, in caves, after the war, a huge arsenal of many European states was stored for a long time.

There are many bridges in Luxembourg.

What to see in Luxembourg.

1. gothic cathedral Notre Dame.
2. National Museum of Luxembourg.
3. Palace of the Grand Duke and the Cathedral of Our Lady.
4. Rock Chapel of San Quiren.

5. Church of St. John on the Stone.

Gamilius Square, where a market takes place every Saturday. From this square you can walk along one of the two pedestrian streets: Post Street and Monterey Avenue. At the end of these streets is Parade Square, where there are many cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as tourist life is in full swing here, street performances are organized and there are always a lot of people.

There are several museums in Luxembourg:

Weapons museum;

Museum of History;

Museum of Folk Life;

Museum of ancient musical instruments.

Luxembourg is a great place to ride bicycles. If there is an opportunity to go to this small but amazing country Go without hesitation, you won't regret it!

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