The Historic Fortifications of Luxembourg: A World Heritage, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

The city of Luxembourg is surprising in many ways. One surprise in particular was the sheer amount of history packed into such a small space. The dramatically situated fortifications of Luxembourg are an integral part of that history; they are also a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Although the area was inhabited in Roman times, the fortress of Luxembourg dates back to 963 CE. We now know Luxembourg as a city and a country, but for many centuries it was effectively a fortified dukedom, whose ownership passed backwards and forwards between the great powers of Europe.

The oldest fortifications sit on top of a massive rocky outcrop, surrounded by a gorge cut by the Alzette river. Although the town walls were later pulled down, you can still see ramparts, gates and turrets. A particular feature is the Bock Casemates, miles of tunnels and rooms cut into the rock to be used during times of siege.

Luxembourg is sometimes known as the “Gibraltar of the north”. I could see why: the design and setting of the walls and tunnels immediately reminded me of Gibraltar, another fortified rock!

The inclusion of the fortifications in a World Heritage Site is a recognition of the significant role played by Luxembourg in European history. UNESCO also notes that the city “preserves major remains of its impressive fortifications and its old quarters, in an exceptional natural setting”. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).