Notre-Dame Cathedral, Luxembourg (must see)

Notre-Dame Cathedral stands with its historic entrance facing Rue Notre-Dame. As you're getting closer, look up at the richly carved portal, decorated with figures of the Virgin Mary, Saint Peter, and Saint Paul. Step back before entering to see the cathedral’s three towers. The western bell tower belongs to the original Jesuit church, built between 1613 and 1621, while the central and eastern towers were added during the major enlargement of 1935-38. The church became a cathedral in 1870 and remains the only cathedral in the Grand Duchy.

Once inside, stand in the central nave and look upward at the pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and cylindrical columns. The older part of the building combines late Gothic structure with Renaissance and Baroque decoration. As you continue toward the sanctuary, notice how the space becomes broader where the 20th-century transept and choir begin.

Keep an eye out for the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, especially around the choir. Several were designed by noted artists, including Louis Barillet and Josef Oberberger, and they fill the interior with colored light when the sun is favorable.

Near the front, look toward the main altar and choir. At the far end stands the cathedral’s most important devotional object: Our Lady of Luxembourg, the Consoler of the Afflicted. This small wooden Madonna and Child is the patroness of Luxembourg and plays a central role in the annual Octave pilgrimage, when it is carried in procession through the city. Also look for the cathedral’s richly carved pulpit and sculptural decoration, where biblical scenes and ornamental details reflect the artistic ambitions of the original Jesuit church.

Before leaving, follow signs toward the crypt, if it is open. Its entrance is marked by two sculpted lions. Inside are the tombs of members of Luxembourg’s Grand Ducal family, together with the monument of John the Blind, King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg.

Tip:
Take time to look upward, as the vaulting, stained glass, and carved details are easy to miss.
The cathedral currently opens to visitors daily, generally from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Sunday, although access can change during services and special ceremonies. If the crypt is open, it is also worth visiting: apart from the royal tombs, it offers a very different, quieter perspective on the cathedral and is pleasantly cool during warm weather.