I have always loved visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, so Luxembourg was an obvious choice when I had the opportunity to make it my layover destination between Cologne and Amsterdam.  Sandwiched between Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg is just under 2600 square km. Once dubbed the Gibraltar of the North, this country has played a large role in the history of Europe.

At the Crossroads

The city of Luxembourg came about at the intersection of two major Roman thoroughfares. It was founded in 963 when Count Sigefroi, from the Moselle Valley, built a castle on the Rocher du Bock. The town thrived, grew, fortified its positions and by the 16th century had become a strategic and military prize. The French and Spanish kings, and Roman Emperors all wanted Luxembourg for their own.

Rocher du Bock - Site of Chateau de Sigefroi

UNESCO World Heritage Site

The old quarter of Luxembourg and its fortifications gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994.

Overlooking the Old Quarter from Rocher du Bock

Walking Around Luxembourg

The Bock Casemates overlooking the Alzette Valley

The Wenzel path takes you over the Stierchen Bridge, pictured above. This trail provides information about the  natural and the man-made environments of Luxembourg, including the fortress, old town and the parts of the town outside the fortified walls.

Autumn view of Alzette River from Rue Muenster

Ennert de SteilerBuilt in 1350, the historical building “Ennert de Steiler” is a notable building in Luxembourg’s old town. It is home to oldest pub in Luxembourg, which was first opened in 1842.

Grand Duchess Charlotte in Clairefontaine SquareThis monument commemorates the Grand Duchess Charlotte (1896-1985). She took over the rule from her elder sister, Marie-Adelaide who abdicated the throne in 1912. Charlotte and the Grand Ducal family left Luxembourg prior to its Nazi occupation during WWI, only to return in 1945. During this time she was viewed as a symbol of national unity. She departed the throne in 1964, in favor of her son, Jean.

Monument of Remembrance goes by the nickname of Gëlle Fra, which means Golden Lady. Situated in the heart of Luxembourg, it is a memorial to commemorate fallen soldiers and war victims.

Impressive building of the State Savings Bank

Luxembourg is known as a global financial centre. Many of the world's largest banks have offices here.

Headquarters of Arcelor Mittal

The iron and steel industry plays an important role in the Luxembourg economy, second only to banking.  The largest steel producer in the world, Arcelor Mittal, is headquartered in Luxembourg.

Bridges of Luxembourg - The Old and the New

The Passerelle over the Pétrusse valleyThe Passerelle, also known as the Old Bridge or the Viaduct, crosses the Pétrusse valley. It is 290m long,  has 24 arches and rises 45m above the valley. The bridge was built between 1859 and 1861 to connect the city centre with Luxembourg's new train station.

Pont Adolphe, the New Bridge

Also known as the New Bridge, Pont Adolphe was built between 1900 and 1903. It was quite a technological feat when it was constructed.  The span of the middle arch of 84.65m was the greatest of its time and it was also one of the first bridges to use concrete in its construction.

Adieu and Auf Wiedersehen to Luxembourg

Luxembourg Train Station

My visit was short but thoroughly enjoyable and left me wanting to come back soon.

Local Tip

The languages of Luxembourg are French, German and a local dialect called Luxembourgish.  The signs and menus are a combination of all and often include english, as well.