Luxembourg is a very tiny country in Western Europe that is landlocked by the counties of Germany, Belgium and France. It is the world’s only Grand Duchy left that is ruled by the Grand Duke. The capital of Luxembourg Canton in the Luxembourg district, one of the three districts in the country, is Luxembourg City, a rather unvisited site by tourists, as it lies to a far in south Luxembourg. The city is situated where the Rivers Alzette and Pétrusse meet in the southern part of Luxembourg.
Although it lies in central Europe, tourists seldom include the city in their itinerary. This is also largely because the county is too small and does not have extravagant places to visit. However, it is one of the richest cities in the world and is therefore highly developed having a modern infrastructure and important government organizations. The city’s history dates back to the Middle Age and the signs of the Roman Era are still visible from some of the architectural buildings that still exist from that period.
The city centre is perched up on a rugged cliff with a view of the valley below while a series of viaducts and bridges cross over the two rivers, joining the city that lies on either side of the rivers. Its old quarters and fortifications are a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Neo-gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Church built in 1613 and expanded in 1935-1938, is a major landmark of the city. The Grand Ducal Palace, which is the official residence of the ruling duke, is also a grand piece of architecture.
Neumünster Abbey is a cultural centre and public meeting place, where the original Benedictine Abbey had once stood before being destroyed in 1542 and being replaced by a new abbey in 1606. The Gëlle Fra War Memorial, Place d’Arms and the city hall are also worth a visit. Wenzel’s Walk is a great tour that takes you to explore the casemates. However, it is quite a long and steep walk, so be prepared to have a strenuous exercise, but a little trouble at times can be quite rewarding. Also one can visit the National History Museum and the Art Museum.
Although the city is small, it offers some great scenery and picturesque views of valleys, rivers, cliffs and lush green countryside. Luxembourg is an interesting city and it certainly makes it worthwhile, visiting this lovely city.
Photo by Sergei Tkachenko provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Sergey Ashmarin provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by javier herranz provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by Sergei Tkachenko provided courtesy of Panoramio.com