The Grand Duchy is rich in places of interest. In Luxemburg, tourists will find ancient palaces, museums and unique nature parks, so an excursion program there will never be boring. The Grand Duchy Palace is a must visit place in Luxemburg. Initially, the building was constructed as a town hall. Later it became a property of the Dutch governor and only in the end of the 19th century the palace got the status of the head of the country’s residence. During the years of the Nazi regime, the palace was used as a venue for concerts and entertainment shows. The majority of artworks that were in the palace were lost during that period. Only after the end of World War II the palace has become the duke’s residence once again. Today, the palace is used for conferences and official ceremonies.
The Former Castle of the Counts of Luxembourg is an interesting building that is worth attention of travellers. The castle was built on a hill in the middle of the 10th century. In the 10th century it was used as a residence of counts, and later the castle was turned into a protective facility. In 1459, the castle was severely damaged in fire. The fortress was discovered by archaeologists only in 1993. Nowadays, visitors can see a part of the wall and one wing of the castle.
Buildings of the medieval period are not the only sight of Luxembourg. Below modern streets and squares there is a complicated system of tunnels. Construction of the so called casemates started in 1644. At that time the casemates were an important part of protective facilities. The total length of the tunnels estimated 23 km. Many of them were demolished later and only 17 km of tunnels have survived. It’s also worth mentioning that during the Roman Empire times there already was a system of complex underground tunnels and it was later expanded in the medieval period.
Notre Dame Cathedral remains the most famous religious building. This magnificent church was built in the 17th century in a style that can be described as a mix of late gothic style and renaissance. The main symbol of the sanctuary is the statue of Maria. On the days of big religious holidays, the statue is taken out the cathedral and installed on the nearby square. Thousands of pilgrims arrive to the city on these special days, so that they can bow to the statue. Vianden, the home city of Victor Hugo, is often called the most picturesque place in Luxembourg. Tourists will find here cosy streets, parks, squares and charming restaurants. Travellers are also recommended the visit the museum dedicated to the great writer.
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Cities and sights of Luxemburg
