Luxembourg
A country of less than 600,000 people and covering just 1000 sq miles (2600 sq kilometers).
The home of European Union Parliament and the European Court of Justice.
This small nation has an incredible history over the last 1000 years and beyond.
From the times of the Celts and Gauls and the Romans...to the founding of the first castle at Luxembourg (Lucilinburhuc meaning little castle) by Count Siegfried in 963 A.D.
In about 1200, the walls went up; and, despite a history that included ruling by Spain, France, Germany, and Belgium at times, Luxembourg has been independent for about 200 years now.
Today, Luxembourg City is a beautiful place to visit. a compact city with so much to see in such a small walking distance.
Plus, in some ways, this place is remarkably affordable. The metro system is totally free. Seeing many of the attractions you want cost nothing, including entrance the to History and Art Museum. And, I found food prices to be more affordable than I thought they would be.
Heights and Valleys
a formidable defense
Beautiful Churches
From the 16th century to the 19th.
Old Quarter
The Old City of Luxembourg is located at the confluence of the Alzette and Pétrusse Rivers, on a very steep rocky outcrop which is somewhat of a natural fortification that only needed to be completed on the west side.
These heights are where much of the most beautiful parts of the city are located.
Meander around the streets, do a little shopping, stop at a cafe, or just rest in one of the numerous plazas.
Palais Grand Ducal
Palace serving as residence of Grand Duke of Luxembourg. They offer guided tours in the summer.
Churches
The Cathedral of Notre Dame is the most popular church. The most recent version that you see today was built in 1885 and expanded between 1935 and 1963. But, there have been churches here since the 17th century.
There is also Saint Michael Church, the oldest church in Luxembourg City. The current church dates back to 1687.
Bock Wall and Casements
Vast complex of underground tunnels & galleries, begun in 1644 and used as recently as WWII for bomb shelters. An impressive system of defenses that makes you wonder what the city must have looked like before the walls were dismantled following the Treaty of London in 1867. Unfortunately, the casements were closed for the season when I visited in March.
Grund
The neighborhood at the bottom of the valley between the heights of Luxembourg City, on the banks of the Alzette River
