Attractions
There are a number of amazing attractions in Luxembourg. The attractions are actually among the reasons why Luxembourg is one of the leading tourist destinations in Europe. They include The Chateau, The Casemates among others.
The Chateau of the Luxembourg Counts
The Chateau is perched right on a promontory that juts out named the Bock. This castle dates back to 963 making it one of the oldest local buildings. Fire ravaged this castle in 1459 and the ruins were incorporated into some series of fortifications that occurred on the Bock. A number of archaeological excavations were conducted in 1993 and they revealed that a number of elements still remained from the original castle. Today, you can view a revealing archaeological crypt that helps to retrace the chateau’s history and its fortress.
The Casemates
The Casemates are comprised of a complicated labyrinth that contains defensive passageways, which helped to forge the impressive and outstanding military history that Luxembourg is known for. The very first tunnels were built underground way back in 1644 when the Spaniards dominated the city.
In 1688 the galleries, which are 23 kilometers long were enlarged by Vauban, a fortress builder and military engineer from France. Then in the 18th Century, the Austrians helped to enlarge it even more when they were in Luxembourg.
These passages got placed on very different levels. They also got to reach 40 meters down. This defense work helped to coin the name ‘Gibraltar of the North’ for Luxembourg. After the fortress was dismantled in 1867, around 17 kilometers were spared and they are still in a relatively good condition so you will get a chance to explore them when you get to Luxembourg.
The Valley of the Seven Castles
This Valley should be corrected titled the Valley of the Eisch River. It is a small area that houses the concentration of castles, which is the most spectacular and scenic of all in Europe. Most visitors are especially impressed by the medieval castle at Koerich.
The Grand Ducal Palace
This Palace underwent construction from 1572 to 1574 in the Renaissance style from Spain. Originally, it was meant to be the town hall but it later became the Prefecture to seat the government. In 1890, it became the Grand Ducal Palace after reconstruction by the famed architects Charles Arendt and Bordian.
The Petrusse Express
The Petrusse Express is a specially made open- air train for tourists. It frequently offers guided tours going through the Petrusse Valley from which you can see most of the fortifications, which are still remaining. This tour gives visitors a deeper insight into how life was in the fortress through commentaries given is a couple of languages.
The Moselle Valley
This Valley is the main winery and vineyard region for Luxembourg. The Moselle River has vineyards on the gentle slopes found on its banks. There are guided tours in the wineries found in this region, which explain the manufacture of the sparkling and still wines. You can even get samples. The only local casino and a famed health spa also happen to be located in Mondarf- les- Bains in this region.
The Market at the Place Guillaume
On every Saturday and Wednesday, Place Guillaume is a concert of colors because they are the official market days. You can get vegetables, flowers and a variety of a couple of other goods. Bargaining is allowed so you will get to save a couple of bucks.
Notre- Dame Cathedral
This cathedral was built from 1613 to 1621 in the Gothic style. It houses the vault for the royal family. A voluptuous sarcophagus of John the Blind is also found in the Notre- Dame Cathedral. You can also view the treasure at this cathedral upon request. On the 5th Sunday following Easter, thousands upon thousands of pilgrim come to celebrate the Octave of Our Lady of Luxembourg that is held annually at this Cathedral