Luxembourg at Christmas

Where and when: Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, December 2024

We visited Luxembourg City few days prior to Christmas last year. So this post has been a long time coming (better late than never!)

We spent one full day in Luxembourg city, exploring the capital castles, the city centre and Christmas Markets.

Luxembourg City, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, has a history that dates back over a thousand years. The city was founded in 963 by Count Siegfried, and the Bock Casemates fortress was constructed to protect the region.

Throughout the centuries, Luxembourg City became a vital strategic location, attracting various rulers and armies. It flourished during the medieval period when it earned a reputation as a fortified city.

The construction of extensive fortifications in the 17th century enhanced its defensive capabilities, leading to numerous military conflicts, including the Thirty Years’ War and the War of Spanish Succession.

In 1867, Luxembourg’s neutrality was recognized, and the fortifications were dismantled, allowing for urban expansion. Today, the city is a blend of its historical heritage and modern development, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its impressive fortifications and charming old town.

The capital of Luxembourg is home to several magnificent castles that reflect the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. One of the most notable is the Grand Ducal Palace, the official residence of the Grand Duke.

Statue of Grand Duchess Charlotte – longest reigning monarch in Luxembourg

The Luxembourg City Museum is a vibrant institution dedicated to showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of Luxembourg City.

The museum offers visitors fascinating exhibitions that explore the city’s evolution from its medieval roots to its modern-day status as a European capital.

The museum provides an insights into the lives of the city’s residents over the centuries and a modern day focus as the home of the European Parliement. (Unfortunately we were there at the weekend so the parliament was not open for visitors).