Luxembourg Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Luxembourg

The capital city of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is known as Luxembourg City. The Romans had built small forts here that guarded two roads that passed through. But it was Count Seigfried in 963 who began the town by building a castle on the Bock promontory. A small church followed on the site of present day St. Michael’s Church. Soon a community sprang up along the Roman road.

Bock Rock provided a natural spot to settle, as the elevated ground is easily defensible and surrounded on three sides by the Alzette River. Over the centuries, fortifications sprang up along the rock. As the city grew, more walls were added.

The city walls and fortifications were never breached, even though the city changed hands several times. Many of the fortifications were destroyed in the 1800s, but there are many remains to be visited. The Bock Casements and Chemin de la Corniche shouldn’t be missed, if not for the history than simply for the gorgeous views of town.

Today, Luxembourg City is one of the de facto capitals of the European Union and is filled with history. It is an easy-to-walk town, with shops and pedestrian-only streets centrally located around the Place d’Armes and Grand Rue. The Grand Ducal Palace, St. Michaels Church, and Notre Dame Cathedral are all near the city center in Ville-Haute.

There’s a lot to see and do in this flavorful European city, from fine dining, arts, and culture to historic sightseeing and relaxing in the many parks. Come on a self-guided walking tour of this beautiful capital city, and learn more about its people, places, and history.