What is Luxembourg famous for? Message about Luxembourg. Report. Haute Sur National Park

Is one of the smallest Western European states, it may surprise you. This state with a monarchical constitutional system is of outstanding economic and strategic importance. In addition, the most interesting things about Luxembourg can be told by numerous historical and cultural monuments that have been perfectly preserved here since the Middle Ages. Today, key institutions and organizations of the EU work in the state, and Luxembourg itself is considered the personification of the merger of German and Roman Europe.

It is worth starting to list interesting facts about Luxembourg from the fact that officially the power is called the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, which makes it the only sovereign duchy in the world. The local population communicates mainly in Luxembourgish. It is a dialect of German. At the same time, all documentation in the Duchy is conducted in French, and the first language in school is German. Amazing, isn't it?

Interesting facts about Luxembourg can be listed endlessly. So, in the past, this small power occupied an area three times larger than the modern one. In addition, the foundation Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Habsburg dynasty were founded by members of the Luxembourg dynasty.

Modern Luxembourg

Today the Duchy is an example of a modern economically developed country. The level of GDP per capita in the state is three times higher than in European countries, which makes it the highest in the world, and, accordingly, Luxembourg itself is one of. The average salary here is the highest in Europe. As for the efficiency of doing business, Luxembourg is in third place behind the leaders, which are Denmark and Finland. Interesting information about Luxembourg: in a country with a population of 465 thousand people, more than 150 banks are open, and the RTL Group is a world leader in the field of television and radio broadcasting.

Did you know that the length of the underground manholes, which are located under the Luxembourg fortress, is 21 kilometers, and the entire Duchy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, since the city's fortifications are of great historical value? And if you count the number of mobile phones purchased by Luxembourgers, then each has 1.5 gadgets.

Luxembourg ("lucilinburch" means "small town"; Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) is located in Western Europe. Luxembourg has been a member of the European Union since 1957. Luxembourg borders France, Germany, and Belgium.

At the end of the seventh century, the population of the territory of modern Luxembourg adopted the Christian faith. In the medieval era, Luxembourg was part of Austrasia, the Roman Empire, Lorraine. Luxembourg gained independence in 963. The beginning of the formation of the state was laid by the fortified castle of Lisilinburg, headed by Siegfried. Conrad became the first count of this small territory (it happened in 1060). Luxembourg became a duchy in 1354.

Currently, Luxembourg is recognized as a constitutional monarchy in terms of the form of government, the Grand Duke is the head of state. The Grand Duke, according to the constitution, can approve and promulgate laws, command the armed forces, he has full executive power (but in fact the executive power is in the hands of the government).

The districts are the largest administrative units of Luxembourg (managed by the commissioners), which in turn are subdivided into cantons (managed by burgomasters) and communes. Elected councils are self-governing bodies in the smallest administrative cells - communes. State languages The Grand Duchy are Luxembourgish, German and French.

Although Luxembourg occupies a small territory (it is slightly more than 2.5 thousand km), this country is very interesting in cultural terms, it amazes with an amazing combination of diverse landscapes. The Green Heart of Europe - this is how Luxembourg was nicknamed in honor of the most picturesque landscapes.

Vineyards and wines of Luxembourg are famous all over the world. Separately, it is worth noting the Moselle varieties made from the grapes of the Moselle Valley, as well as several varieties of liquor and sparkling wines. Several types of beer are also prepared here.

Luxembourg is always happy with tourists. Lovers of water activities can devote time to water sports, ride yachts and boats on the rivers of Luxembourg, or go on a short boat trip along the Moselle River.

The founding date of Luxembourg is 963. Luklinburhuk - this is the original name of this amazing country. Translated into Russian, it meant "little castle". The diversity of landscapes pleases the locals of the country and amazes those who come here for the first time. It is hard to imagine how this small territory absorbed all this diversity. Explore Luxembourg give the opportunity to bus tours. If you wish, you can look at almost all the sights of Luxembourg at a time - not because there are few of them, but because this country is tiny.

Vineyards in Luxembourg are a local celebrity. They are located in the Moselle Valley, and viticulture is most common in its southern half. These are territories from Schengen to Remich. Moselle wines are known all over the world. Amazing sparkling wines are prepared here using champagne technology. No less famous is the blackcurrant wine from the Chateau Beaufort. In addition to wine, several varieties of liqueurs, high quality beer, as well as mineral waters and fruit juices are produced in this area. On the territory of Luxembourg there are several villages that are famous for the production of specific types of wines. These wines are characterized by the presence of very special unique qualities. For example, these are the wines "Enensky visselt" and "Aansky palomberg". The most valuable vineyards are located near the villages of Aan Henin, Vintrange, Schwebsingen, Wormeldange, and the small towns of Grevenmacher and Remich are recognized as the main centers of winemaking.

Luxembourg is a country with a cultural heritage. A tourist who comes here must definitely visit the palace of the Grand Duke (XVI century), the Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame (XVII century), the Esch-sur-Alzette castle (XIX century). The National Museum of Luxembourg is very famous. Here, the visitor's eyes are represented by departments of both modern and ancient art. The medieval city of Rothenburg ob der Tauberg will not leave you indifferent.

Luxembourg (the capital of Luxembourg of the same name) is a contrasting city. The date of its foundation goes back more than a thousand years. The traveler will never forget this lively beautiful city. Luxembourg is a very contrasting city. It incorporated architectural structures made in different styles and belonging to different historical eras. Bridges ("Adolf's Bridge" and more than a hundred other various bridge structures), spiers of churches and palaces are immersed in the greenery of parks. Petrus and Alzetta are two rivers of Luxembourg. These rivers divide the territory of the city into two parts - the Upper City and the Lower City - each of which differs significantly from each other. The upper city reminds of distant times - numerous ancient buildings, the ducal palace, the remains of a once majestic fortress create an aura of antiquity. Many houses are made in the Gothic style and fit very organically into the surrounding landscape - sandstone and limestone cliffs and cliffs. The new quarters of the lower city leave an imprint of modernity. There are many industrial enterprises and institutions.

"Adolf's Bridge" - the famous viaduct connecting Luxembourg into a single whole. Indeed, this bridge is designed to connect the Upper City and the Lower City. The "Adolf Bridge" was built at the beginning of the last century (1900-1903). Named for Duke Adolf, who ruled at the time of its construction. At the beginning of the twentieth century, "Adolf's Bridge" was considered the largest stone bridge in the world. The maximum height of the bridge is forty-two meters, and the total length of the bridge is one hundred and fifty-three meters. The length of the arch of the "Adolf Bridge" is eighty-five meters. In addition to the "Adolf's Bridge", there are many other bridges in the capital. They are so different from each other that one can only marvel at their diversity. "Last Su" - an amazing arch bridge, the old "Hondehuishen" bridge. And the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, built in 1962-1966, is one of the largest bridges made of steel. The length of the Charlotte Bridge (the second name is the Red Bridge) is three hundred and fifty-five meters.

Parade Square in Luxembourg is the center of urban life. This square is decorated with a monument to the poets Dikk and Lenz. Not far from Parade Square, an inquisitive traveler will be able to see the palace of the Grand Duke. This three-story building, representing Renaissance architecture, was erected in 1580.

Not only adults, but also children can spend time in Luxembourg. You should definitely show your child the Miracle Park, located in Betembourg. The tourist center of Galdenberg and the park in Mondorf-le-Baie will also impress both children and their parents.

Clervaux is a medieval town. Such an association is associated with the predominance of Gothic architecture, as well as the ruins of a knight's castle located here. The greatness of the town, which is also the northernmost in Luxembourg, is given by the buildings of the abbey (this abbey is very famous in Luxembourg).

The highest part of Luxembourg is Essling. This northern region of the country. The height of some peaks exceeds five hundred meters above sea level. Essling occupies about a third of the territory of Luxembourg. Wiltz is largest city Esling. Like the city of Luxembourg, Wiltz consists of two parts. The upper city is located at an altitude of four hundred meters. In the center of the upper city is an ancient fortress. The lower city was eighty meters down the slope. Wiltz is a very beautiful town. Its surroundings are especially picturesque. The impression of provinciality that a visitor may have is associated with some randomness of its development. Ten kilometers from Wiltz, the town of Esch-sur-Sur is comfortably located. Since ancient times, this town has specialized in cloth making. "Ash in the hole" - that's what the city was called locals due to its low-lying location.

The city of Vianden is one of the most picturesque in Luxembourg. It is located at some distance from Wiltz. Vianden is located at the foot of the ancient fortress. Previously, it belonged to the Dukes of Nassau. Picturesque Vianden adds proximity to the valley of the river Ur. The celebrity of Vianden is given by the fact that the great writer V. Hugo lived in this city - in 1948 his house was restored, later a museum appeared here.

Gutland is the southern part of Luxembourg. It occupies about 70 percent of the territory, and almost 90 percent of the total population lives here. Gutland, which means "good land", is occupied by hilly terrain. The diversity of its landscape is provided by the alternation of pastures and meadows, gardens and fields, bushes and small forests.

"Luxembourg Switzerland" - a special corner of the Grand Duchy. It occupies the territory along the White and Black Erenz rivers. Deep gorges with steep walls are adjacent to high peaks and stone pillars. This kind of contrast is associated with the junction of Jurassic sandstones and Triassic limestones in this area. In the immediate vicinity of Berdorf there is an amazing rock with a cave. The powerful vault of the cave, which is popularly called "Roman", is supported by huge columns created by the hand of nature. An unusually beautiful landscape can be admired near the dilapidated Beaufort fortress. Not at all big, but fast Hallerbach stream breaks down from the stones with real waterfalls. The valley of this stream is completely overgrown with hazel, beech, and oak. The air here is amazingly fresh.

Echternach is one of the oldest cities in Luxembourg. It is located near the "Luxembourg Switzerland". The city of Echternach has almost a thousand years of history. In the city, a tourist will be able to get acquainted with a large number of ancient buildings. Each building has the right to "boast" of bizarre arches and vaults. The mountainous and wooded coast of the Sur overlooks the city of Echternach. All sorts of holidays and processions are often held in this city. This is a recognized tourist center, almost in no way inferior to the capital of the Grand Duchy.

The Feast of St. Blaise is a revered holiday in Luxembourg. It is celebrated on February 2nd. On this day, children sing the song of St. Valsius and ask for treats. Their procession is adorned with accessories such as canes with lanterns, which are fixed at the ends. An interesting fact is that in the songs of St. Vlasia, including talking about bacon and peas. This circumstance makes it possible to assume that many years ago on this day the poor man asked for food. Like most traditions, this holiday has a long history. Children are begging at the moment. They enthusiastically accept the treats offered by adults and never refuse if they also give coins.

Burning Burg is another tradition in Luxembourg. It is associated with the Burgzondeg holiday. On this day, a large bale of brushwood, logs and hay is built - this is actually Burg. Then, at a certain time, all this is subjected to fire by the organizers of the holiday (as a rule, these are young people). Volunteers from the fire station are always watching what is happening. In some towns, tradition grants the honor of setting the Burg on fire to a couple of newlyweds. This tradition has a long history. It symbolizes the beginning of the long-awaited spring and the end of the long winter. On this day, light conquers darkness, and heat conquers cold.

Luxembourg is a Christian country. Therefore, Easter is widely celebrated here. Easter eggs are traditionally given on this day. It is customary in the Grand Duchy to hide painted eggs throughout the house and in the garden. Adults are happy to watch their children look for Easter eggs with no less enthusiasm. The tradition of self-coloring eggs is very strong, and it cannot be supplanted by the industrial sale of Easter eggs. Women also give their husbands Easter eggs, but often chocolate eggs filled with pralines. Interestingly, the public celebration does not fall on Easter Sunday, but on Easter Monday - on this day, many attend one of the two fairs taking place at this time in Luxembourg (one fair in the capital of the Grand Duchy, the other in the western part of the country). Pottery is of particular importance at the fairs, although folk entertainment, drinks and food are also important. Parents buy clay bird whistles for their children. Their sound is reminiscent of the call of a cuckoo.

The Octave Festival is considered the main religious event in Luxembourg. This holiday is held in honor of the Most Holy Theotokos. On this day, the cathedral of the capital attracts parishioners from all over the country, as well as the German Eifel and the French region of Lorraine. 1666 is the year of the birth of this tradition. It was then that the Virgin Mary was chosen as the patroness of the Grand Duchy. The comforter of the afflicted protected the people from the plague. In the same year, 1666, the Jesuits moved the statue of the Virgin Mary, which was carved from dark wood, from the old church to the cathedral. In the main choir, on a special altar, there is a statue during the Octave. The procession gathers on the outskirts of Luxembourg (city), then the pilgrims move on foot to the Cathedral. Each parishioner orders their own mass, and after the service at the Octave Market, pilgrims can taste food and quench their thirst. This market, located on Place Guillem, has been part of the tradition for many years. The religious holiday ends with a procession, the purpose of which is to carry the statue of the Virgin Mary through the streets of the capital.

The jumping procession in Echternach has gained an international reputation. This unusual tradition is indeed known outside the Grand Duchy; it is part of a centuries-old religious tradition. The jumping procession falls on the Tuesday following Whitsunday. This tradition dates back to pagan times. Legend places its appearance in the eighth century. It says that in those ancient times, Faith and his wife went on a pilgrimage. However, the woman died on the way. Years later, Feith returned to his native land and found that all his property had been appropriated by relatives. Moreover, they started a rumor that Faith had killed his wife. As a result, this unfortunate man was sentenced to death. Feit's last wish was to play the violin. When the music sounded, the entire assembled population began to dance. Even tired, no one could stop. Taking advantage of this, Faith calmly left the city. The prayer of St. Willibord, who came to the place of the described events, saved him from dancing. The spell of the innocent Feith was called the dance of St. Vitus. The procession of jumpers was intended to save the population from the "tiring" dance, as well as from all ailments and diseases. For many years the procession of the jumpers was a great religious event. It was attended (mostly on foot) by believers from different parts of Luxembourg and from outside the country. The processional dance currently consists of two steps to the right and two steps to the left, while in the past three steps were taken forward and two steps back. The latter became the basis of the well-known metaphor: "to go with an Ekternakh step." The dancers line up in lines of 7 or 5 people. Each participant holds a handkerchief by the corner. The procession moves forward quite slowly - it will take at least three hours to overcome the chosen route (includes passing in front of the tomb of St. Willibrord). All this is accompanied by a repetitive melody that can lead to a trance. At least ten thousand people gather along the streets to look at the amazing religious tradition.

June 23 is a national holiday in Luxembourg. From 1919 to 1964, Grand Duchess Charlotte ruled Luxembourg. Her birthday was on January 23rd. However, it was celebrated on a summer day on June 23. This number was declared a national holiday after Jean became Grand Duke. The holiday begins with a greeting from the ducal family. To this end, a parade with lit torches is organized in front of the palace, after which thousands of participants in the holiday go to the Adolf Bridge for fireworks. Then each area of Luxembourg offers its own entertainment program. Artists, ensembles, musicians, clowns, brass bands gather here. After accepting the parade, the Grand Duke and his family go to the cathedral. Here a thanksgiving service is held in honor of the Luxembourg House. National Day celebrations take place in each of the one hundred and eighteen townships of the Grand Duchy. National holiday necessarily accompanied by a patriotic speech by the mayor and awards.

The Schuberfoer is a centuries-old tradition. He was installed Count of Luxembourg by John the Blind in 1340. Currently, Schuberfoer (or simply Foer in the lexicon of the Luxembourgers) is an amusement fair, and in the past it was a market. It is unlikely that anyone knows for sure where this colloquial name came from. The first claim that the name is associated with the place where the market used to be held. Others say that the name comes from the word "Shober". In translation, it means "haystack", and the day of the fair almost coincides with the holiday of harvesting - the day of St. Bartholomew. The once-existing market eventually transformed into an amusement fair, which is held on the territory of Glacis land. The fair is represented by attractions for every taste, there are traditional Ferris wheels and roller coasters. Here you can also meet die-hard vendors who carry on a long tradition, offering wonderful kitchen tools, ebony carvings, roasted hazelnuts, nougat, and so on. Schuberfoer, like many others, is never complete without food and drink. Forfesh deserves special attention. It is merlang fish fried in brewer's yeast. It is traditionally served with fried potatoes and washed down with either a glass of the famous Moselle wine or a glass of beer. At the opening ceremony of the Schuberfoer festival there are musicians, as well as a shepherd with sheep (a "sheep march" is performed). The musicians, following the shepherd and his small flock of sheep, walk along the city streets and traditionally play the old folk melody - "Sheep March". Dressed in blue suits, they are reminiscent of nineteenth-century farmers.

Grape festivals are traditional in Luxembourg. As well as wine holidays. Currently, in Luxembourg, grapes are grown almost exclusively on the banks of the Moselle. But even the small amount of grapes grown along the Sauer is still transported to the Moselle for wine production. Winemakers in the Grand Duchy produce 7 varieties of white wines, a small amount of rosé, as well as several varieties of sparkling wines (locally called them "Champ"). White wines are Riesling, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Auxerrois, Ebling, Gewürztraminer and Rivaner. Rosé wines - Pinot noir, Pinot rosé and Ebling rosé.

Wine festivals and grape festivals in Luxembourg are not the same thing. The grape festivals usually fall in October. They are held in gratitude for the grape harvest. The grape festival in Schwebzang is considered the only one of its kind. Instead of water, wine flows in the city fountain. And in Grevenmacher, according to tradition, the Queen of Grapes is transported through the whole city. The procession is accompanied by music, bands, a parade and, of course, wine. In essence, wine festivals are village festivals. They are usually held in spring time, their purpose is to communicate, they are accompanied by dance music. At the festival, of course, there are wine and traditional dishes. The action takes place either outdoors under a large tent, or in the assembly hall of a local winery, or under a large awning outside. During May or June, a similar event is organized by every wine-making enterprise. The purpose of the festival is to taste fresh wines.

Life of St. Nicholas is shrouded in more than one legend. St. Nicholas, being archbishop of Lycia in Asia Minor, lived in the fourth century. Most famous legend says that St. Nicholas rescued three children from a pickling barrel (St. Nicholas is the patron saint of children). St. Day Nicholas falls on December 6th. On the eve of this holiday, the saint descends from heaven in order to give gifts to those children who have behaved well.

8 facts to know about Luxembourg if you are visiting for the first time.

Right in the center of Europe, you will find the beautiful country of Luxembourg. A landlocked country, it is full of forests, fairytale castles and jagged gorges. The country's capital is also called Luxembourg and is located in the south.

This Grand Duchy (the only one of its kind in the world)

There is no king or queen of Luxembourg. Instead there is Grand Duke or the Grand Duchess. The current Grand Duke named Henri has ruled the principality since 2000. Like the Queen of England, the country celebrates its "official" birthday every year. Currently, that date is June 23rd, and on the evening of the 22nd, everyone in the country comes out to party! Celebrations are celebrated during the day and often last all night until 6 am.

From the Ground at the bottom of the valley to the shiny new buildings of the European Union in the Kirchberg district, each district of Luxembourg has its own unique atmosphere.

Whether you prefer museums contemporary art, outdoor concerts or great restaurants, Luxembourg has it all!

Wear good, comfortable shoes (you'll be walking a lot!)

The best way to get around Luxembourg City is on foot (especially in areas of the city like the Grund where the streets are narrow). Thus, it is best to have shoes that are comfortable for walking.

Try Luxembourg food (at least once!)

Although Luxembourg is known for its international cuisine, it still has many of its own dishes. During your stay in the country, you can taste a wide variety of delicious dishes from all over Europe and beyond. Try the kniddel, which is a type of dumplings, but they come in both meat and vegetable varieties.

The currency of Luxembourg is the euro

Interesting fact: Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union. As a result, the currency used in Luxembourg is the Euro. This is especially important if you are planning to visit nearby countries such as France and Germany. (Everyone uses euros and you won't have to change your money twice!)

If you don't have enough time and can only visit one place, then opt for Vianden. The fairy tale castle and town are located in the north of Luxembourg, two hours from Luxembourg City. If this is your first trip to Luxembourg and you're worried about wasting your precious time on transport, don't worry! For the travel time is worth it; The magical Vianden Castle is one of the largest surviving castles in the area. The city itself was once the home of Victor Hugo and there is a museum dedicated to his life. The museum is located right in the center of the city.

Luxembourg has its own language

In fact, Luxembourg has three official languages: French, German and Luxembourgish. Due to the central location European country Landlocked, Luxembourg borders France and Germany, and many of the inhabitants are fluent in three languages!

acquiring Luxembourg Pass

Of all the tips for visiting Luxembourg, this is probably the most important. To save you the hassle, loss of time (and in many cases, money), we highly recommend purchasing a Luxembourg Pass. There are various options for the Luxembourg Pass, including family cards and cards for different lengths of stay. Maps can be used for various points of interest, as well as for most public transport countrywide.

Thank you for reading the article “Luxembourg - interesting facts for first-time visitors”. See you soon. Your secrets in your ear!

It will be interesting to learn the features of one of the most developed and wealthy countries in the world - Luxembourg. If you are going to go to this wonderful corner of our planet, then interesting facts about Luxembourg just need to know!

So let's get started!

Each country has its own full name. So Luxembourg is officially spelled like this: "The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg." It is curious that this is the only duchy in the world today.
The head of state is called the "Grand Duke".
The name Luxembourg comes from the German "lucilinburch", which translates as "small city".
An interesting fact is that Luxembourg is one of the smallest sovereign states in the world. Its area is only 2,586.4 km².
The population of Luxembourg is approximately equal to 500 thousand people, that is, about half a million. This is less than in any millionaire city!
An interesting fact is that GDP per capita in Luxembourg is significantly higher than the European average.
Luxembourgers also have the highest minimum wage in the world.
The average life expectancy for men is 77 years, for women - 82 years.
Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French and German. Read a detailed article about.
As surprising as this may sound interesting fact, but a third of the territory of this tiny country is covered by forests.
one of the highest in the world.
The literacy rate of Luxembourgers is 100%.
There are 12 communes in the duchy that have city status.
In the commune of Vianden at one time he lived and wrote immortal creations eminent French writer. Today in this city there is the Hugo Museum, which is very popular among European tourists.
A lot of EU organizations are located in the city of Luxembourg because the duchy provides very favorable working conditions. More than 200 banks and over 1,000 investment funds are located offshore in Luxembourg, which is much higher than in any other city in the world.
Here it is important to emphasize an interesting fact, which, for sure, you already knew. The fact is that in the state of Luxembourg the capital is the largest city and has exactly the same name as the country itself: Luxembourg.
The state ranks 4th in the world in terms of income of the population.
And this interesting fact about Luxembourg will interest travelers. The fact is that the underground communications of ancient fortresses surprise with their size. So you can wander more than 20 kilometers through underground passages, which in itself is very unusual.
The exceptional historical values that the ancient Duchy of Luxembourg is full of have prompted UNESCO to include the country on the World Heritage List.
Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union, NATO and the UN.
On the territory of the duchy is the largest television and radio company in all of Europe.
An interesting fact of Luxembourg is the following indicator. Here, most of all in the world of mobile phones per capita - 15 pieces per 10 people. However!

Landmarks of Luxembourg

Why is Luxembourg famous in the world?

1. Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy. Today, Luxembourg is the only and last Grand Duchy in the world. At the head of state is His Royal Highness Grand Duke Henri Albert Gabriel Felix Marie Guillaume, who ascended the throne on October 7, 2000. The Duke is the most large of the monarchs of modern Europe - he has five children. The Grand Duke, according to the constitution, can approve and promulgate laws, command the armed forces, he has full executive power (but in fact the executive power is in the hands of the government).

2. Luxembourg is one of ancient states peace. The founding date of Luxembourg is 963. Luxembourg became a duchy in 1354. The fortress and military fortifications, located on steep cliffs in the valley of the river Alzette, formerly called "Lucilinburhuc" (small castle), were practically impregnable and lasted until the middle of the nineteenth century. The name "Luxembourg" comes from the name of these fortifications.

3. In the entire history of the Luxembourg fortress, not a single army has been able to take it by storm. During its heyday, the Luxembourg Fortress (Festung Lëtzebuerg) consisted of three ramparts, covering a total area of 180 hectares. There were many bastions inside the walls, 15 forts in its center and 9 more outside. In 1867, when the question arose of the emergence of an independent constitutional monarchy of the Grand Duchy, an agreement was signed, adopted at the London Conference, guaranteeing the country immunity in exchange for neutrality, as well as the complete and “voluntary” destruction of the Luxembourg fortress. Separate walls with loopholes, a kind of “Three Doves” gates, the citadel of the Holy Spirit, the “Three Acorns” towers along the edges of the rocky platform above the cliff, casemates and long passages in the bowels of the rock, the length of which is more than 21 km, have been preserved from the former power of the fortress.

4. In the distant past, the historical Duchy of Luxembourg was approximately three times more sizes modern country, it included the main part of the Belgian province of Luxembourg. The Luxembourg dynasty also had three members elected Holy Roman Emperors: Henry VII (Henry VII; 1312-1313), Charles IV (Charles IV; 1355-1378) and Sigismund (Sigismund; 1410-1437).

5. There are many medieval castles in Luxembourg. Of the 130 known in the Middle Ages, about 60 have survived in one form or another. Most of the castles are private. Of the surviving ones, those included in the "Association of Luxembourg castles" that unite 14 of them http://associationchateaux.lu deserve attention.

6. The national holiday of Luxembourg - the birthday of the Grand Duke, is celebrated annually on June 23. In fact, Grand Duke Henri's real birthday falls on April 16 (1955). The national holiday was established only in 1947. It was celebrated on January 23, the birthday of Grand Duchess Charlotte, who ruled from 1919 to 1964. However, since 1961, the holiday has been moved to the summer period for the convenience of the residents of the Grand Duchy.

7. The official motto of the country: "We want to remain who we are" ("Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sin")

8. The Green Heart of Europe - this is how Luxembourg is called in honor of the most picturesque landscapes, despite the dense network of roads and railways. Forests occupy 40% of the country's territory!

8. There are 111 bridges in Luxembourg City, two of which connect two parts of the city - the Upper City and the Lower City. "Adolf's Bridge" - the famous viaduct connecting Luxembourg into a single whole. Built at the beginning of the last century (1900-1903). Named for Duke Adolf, who ruled at the time of its construction. At the beginning of the twentieth century, "Adolf's Bridge" was considered the largest stone bridge in the world. The maximum height of the bridge is forty-two meters, and the total length of the bridge is one hundred and fifty-three meters. The length of the arch of the "Adolf Bridge" is eighty-five meters. And the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, built in 1962-1966, is one of the largest bridges made of steel. The length of the Charlotte Bridge (the second name is the Red Bridge) is three hundred and fifty-five meters.

9. The city of Luxembourg can be conditionally divided into two parts - the Upper and Lower City. Each of the parts of the city is significantly different from each other. Two rivers of Luxembourg - Petrus and Alzette - are a kind of watershed. The upper city reminds of distant times - numerous ancient buildings, the ducal palace, the remains of a once majestic fortress create an aura of antiquity. Many houses are made in the Gothic style and fit very organically into the surrounding landscape - sandstone and limestone cliffs and cliffs. The new quarters of the lower city bear the imprint of modernity.

10. In Luxembourg there is another city with a similar division - Wiltz. The upper city is located at an altitude of four hundred meters. In the center of the upper city is an ancient fortress. The lower city was eighty meters down the slope.

11. The 1804 Napoleonic Civil Code is still in force in Luxembourg. Moreover, it has been changed relative to the original version even less than in France.

12. Luxembourg is part of the Benelux (an association between Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg).

13. Luxembourgers are polyglots. According to statistics, a resident of Luxembourg speaks 3.6% of languages. The country has three official languages: Luxembourgish, German and French. But almost everyone also speaks English.

14. Luxembourgish (Letzeburgisch) is the language of the Germanic group of the Indo-European family. According to German dialectology, the language is classified as a West Germanic, Middle German cultural dialect related to Moselle-Frankish. The language is characterized by a strong admixture of French and Flemish, which evolved in later eras in four sub-dialects that have survived to this day. FROM early nineteenth century Luxembourgish is used as the language of literature. Since 1912, it has been included in the number of subjects in primary school. In the face of the Nazi danger, in the second half of the 1930s, the Luxembourgish language was elevated to a "symbol of national unity", and during the period of the Nazi occupation (1940-1944) it becomes "a banner of popular resistance to forced Germanization." After the defeat of German fascism, the Luxembourgish language, along with French and German, received official recognition. According to the decision of the Ministry of National Education, Luxembourgish is considered as literary language. In 1946, its new spelling was introduced, since 1984 Luxembourgish becomes the third official language Luxembourg. Since 2006, knowledge of the Luxembourgish language has been mandatory for citizenship of the Duchy.
In Luxembourg itself, about 476,000 people speak Luxembourgish.
Distribution areas outside Luxembourg: in Belgium (the so-called Arlon lands in the province of Luxembourg), in Germany (border areas in the southwest of the Eifel mountains near Bitburg and in the Moselle valley near Trier), in France (part of the Moselle department near Thionville) , in Romania (Transylvania), in the USA (Illinois and Wisconsin).
There is even

15. Dynastic relations between Russia and Luxembourg began to take shape since 1849, when the crown of the Dukes of Luxembourg passed to Willem III, the nephew of the Russian Emperor Alexander I. And the wife of the famous Guillaume II King of the Netherlands and Duke of Luxembourg was the Russian Princess Anna Pavlovna Romanova, Daughter Paul I. A little later, Elizaveta Mikhailovna Romanova married the Grand Duke of Luxembourg Adolf I de Nassau. After the death of Willem, Adolf of Nassau was proclaimed Grand Duke of Luxembourg in 1890, whose brother, Nikolai-Wilhelm, was married to the youngest daughter of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin, Natalia Alexandrovna Pushkina. In this marriage, the son Georg-Nikolai was born. In 1912, when the Luxembourg ruling house had no direct male heirs left, Georg Merenberg, the son of George Nicholas and Olga Alexandrovna Yuryevskaya (daughter of Emperor Alexander II from a morganatic marriage with Princess Dolgorukova), had a chance to receive the Luxembourg throne. But the vote in Parliament was not in his favor.

16. Russian diplomacy represented Luxembourg in their embassies.on the world stageand for thirty years. Shortly after gaining independence in 1867, the Grand Duke turned to Emperor Alexander II with a request to represent the interests of the young independent Luxembourgish state abroad. Emperor Alexander II wrote: "I agree, although I find this request unusual."

17. Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries not only in Europe but also in the whole world (20th place). The area of Luxembourg is only 2586 sq. km (168th place out of 195 countries). The length of the country is 82 km from north to south and 57 km from west to east. The total length of the borders is 359 km, of which the border with Belgium is 148 km, with Germany - 138 km and France - 73 km. Network length highways public use in Luxembourg is 2,899 km. The length of highways is 152 km.

18. Most high point in Luxembourg - Mount Kneif (560 m), the lowest - r. Moselle (133 m). The most major river Luxembourg - Sur (Sauer) - originates in Belgium and flows to the east, then after the confluence with Ur - to the southeast and south and flows into the Moselle.

19. The national flag of Luxembourg is the "tricolor": red, white, blue horizontal stripes. In 2007, the government decided to use a medieval standard with the image of a red lion, the symbol of the ducal dynasty, during cultural and sporting events.

20. Citizens of 172 nationalities live in Luxembourg.

21. Luxembourg is the least populated state of the European Union, the population of the country is only 576 thousand people (2016), of which 307 thousand Luxembourgers proper and 269 thousand foreigners.

22. Among foreigners, the most numerous are the Portuguese - 93.1 thousand people (16.5% of the population), the French - 41.7 thousand people and the Italians - 20.3 thousand people. Most of the population is concentrated in the southern part of the country. The urban population is approximately 91.3%, rural - 8.7%. Every day, 300,000 frontaliers (citizens of neighboring countries) come to work in Luxembourg.

23. Luxembourg has one of the highest proportions of immigrants in Europe - 43%

24. The capital of the Grand Duchy is the city of Luxembourg. Population - 110 thousand people (2016). During the working day, its number doubles, due to the "frontaliers", i.e. coming from other countries to work.

25. Luxembourg has twice (in 1995 and 2007) won the title of Capital of Culture.

26. Thanks to important historical sites, the entire city of Luxembourg has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

27. Luxembourg is one of the financial centers of Europe. In 2015, there were about 1,000 investment funds and representative offices of 143 banks from 28 countries around the world, who were attracted by the most favorable banking laws in the EU adopted in the late 1970s, guaranteeing the secrecy of deposits. However, in 2017 it will all be over.

28. Luxembourg is in 3rd place in the European Union in terms of business efficiency. Only Finland and Denmark managed to get ahead of him, which occupy 1st and 2nd places, respectively.

29. The famous Schengen agreements were signed on a raft on June 14, 1985 in the small Luxembourg border village of Schengen, located on the border of France, Belgium, and Germany.

30. In Luxembourg schooling Compulsory for children aged 6 to 15. In elementary school, children learn Luxembourgish and German languages, and in the middle - French. In 2003, the country opened its first university educational institution– University of Luxembourg, The number of students was about 6.1 thousand people from 115 countries (2016).

31. In 1867 Luxembourg was proclaimed a permanently neutral state. This neutrality was violated only in 1949, with the entry of Luxembourg into NATO. And in 1957, Luxembourg became one of the six founding countries of the European Coal and Steel Community (later the European Union).

32. Luxembourg is a full member of 50 international organizations. Luxembourg is home to the Court of Justice of the European Communities, the Accounts Chamber of the EU, a number of directorates of the European Commission, the General Secretariat of the European Parliament, the European Investment Bank, etc.

33. Luxembourg ranks second after the USSR in terms of the number of deaths in World War II in percentage terms. The country has lost about 10% of the total population.

34. During the Second World War, the Germans brought to Luxembourg about three thousand Soviet prisoners of war and civilians who were supposed to work in local factories. In Luxembourg, there are several monuments to those who died Soviet citizens during the war (see)

35. Luxembourg has the most high GDP in the world per inhabitant. $101,994 (2015)

36. Luxembourg has the highest wages in the world. $61,511 (2016)

37. In 2015, the highest legal salary for unskilled labor was registered in Luxembourg - 1923 € per month, and for skilled labor - 2 307 €

38. Luxembourg airport received 2.69 million people in 2015, this is 5 times more population duchies

39. Luxembourg has the largest number of cars per thousand inhabitants in the EU - 672.

40. Luxembourg ranks first in the world in steel production per capita. 3.7 tons of steel are smelted per person per year (2015)

41. Residents of Luxembourg have the most high percent mobile phones per capita in Europe (according to 2014 data - 149 pieces per 100 people).

42. Teachers in Luxembourg earn big salaries (second highest in the world after Israel (2012)

43. The oldest resident of Luxembourg died in 2003 at the age of 110 years.

44. Luxembourg has a long life expectancy - 84.8 years for women and 80.2 years for men.

45. In 2015, there were 11 Michelin-starred restaurants in Luxembourg.

46. In 2015, 36 people died in traffic accidents in Luxembourg (mainly drunk driving and speeding).

47. Luxembourgers consume a lot of alcohol (twice the global figure) - 11.9 liters of "pure alcohol" per year (this is equivalent to 500 cans of beer).

48. The highest temperature record was recorded in Luxembourg in August 2003 and amounted to 39.5 C.

49. John the Blind, King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg founded the most famous fair of the Duchy of Schueberfouer on October 12, 1340 (still held annually until now). In 2016, it was held for the 676th time. Currently, Schuberfoer (or as the Luxembourgers themselves call it simply Foer) is an amusement fair, and earlier it was a market.

50. The three most popular surnames in Luxembourg are Schmidt, Müller and Weber.

51. Only two Luxembourgish athletes have won medals at the Olympics: track and field athlete Joseph Alzin - silver at the 1920 Olympics and runner Zozy Barthel - gold at the 1952 Olympics.

52. Four Luxembourg riders have won the Tour de France in 1909, 1925 and 1927, 1958 and 2010.

53. The most titled skier in the history of the World Cup, Mark Girardelli, played for Luxembourg, a country that does not have any high mountains.

54. Luxembourg is home to Europe's largest television and radio company. RTL-Group (Radio-Television-Luxembourg) works at 60 TV stations, 31 radio stations in 12 countries of the world!

55. The armed forces number 1,100, of which about 100 are civilians. Formally speaking, Luxembourg even has an air force, because. 17 NATO E-3A AWACS aircraft were “recorded” behind Luxembourg. At the same time, the military budget of the Duchy is more than 120 million US dollars or 0.5% of the country's GDP.

56. Since 1949, not a single criminal has been executed in Luxembourg, although such a punishment was officially abolished only in 1979.

57. Luxembourg even has its own "Luxembourg Switzerland" (fr. La Petite Suisse Luxembourgeoise, Mullerthal) - a mountainous area northwest of the oldest town of Eshternach. This is the smallest region of Luxembourg, which occupies about 7% of the country. The nature of the region is very similar to that of Switzerland, dominated by rocky terrain, dense forests and many small streams. The highest point is 414 m above sea level. Nearby are the ruins of the Château de Beaufort.

58. The Oberweiss family is famous throughout Luxembourg. Oberweis is calling card Luxembourg - the owners of the confectionery makes sweets for the family of the Luxembourg dukes themselves. This is not only the unsurpassed quality of chocolate, sweets, but also delicious pâtés. The level of chocolate is not inferior to the world-famous Godiva. Family run business since 1964.

59. Luxembourg politician Jean-Claude Juncker is a unique figure on the European political Olympus: 25 years a member of the government of the duchy, 18 years as prime minister. Now the head of the European Commission.

60. In 1886, the famous politician Robert Schuman, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, was born in Luxembourg, who proposed a plan that led to the creation of the first European community - the European Coal and Steel Community

61. Vineyards and wines of Luxembourg are famous all over the world. The Luxembourg wine road (route du vin) stretches for 42 km along the Moselle River from Schengen to Wasserbilling.
On the territory of Luxembourg there are several villages that are famous for the production of specific types of wines. These wines are characterized by the presence of very special unique qualities. For example, these are the wines Enensky Wisselt and Aansky Palomberg. The most valuable vineyards are located near the villages of Aan Henin, Vintrange, Schwebsingen, Wormeldange, and the small towns of Grevenmacher and Remich are recognized as the main centers of winemaking. Winemakers in the Grand Duchy produce many varieties of white wines, a small amount of rosé, as well as several varieties of sparkling wines (locally called "Champs"). White wines are Riesling, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Auxerrois, Ebling, Gewürztraminer and Rivaner. Rosé wines - Pinot noir, Pinot rosé and Ebling rosé.

62. Did you know that you can visit the palace of the Grand Duke (XVI century) and find out how he lives? Once a year in August, the palace is opened for organized groups of tourists for a couple of weeks.

63. Do you know what it means to “walk with the Esternach step”? This unusual tradition is known outside of the Grand Duchy; it is part of a centuries-old religious tradition. Legend dates back to the eighth century. It says that in those ancient times, Faith and his wife went on a pilgrimage. However, the woman died on the way. Years later, Feith returned to his native land and found that all his property had been appropriated by relatives. Moreover, they started a rumor that Faith had killed his wife. As a result, this unfortunate man was sentenced to death. Feit's last wish was to play the violin. When the music sounded, the entire assembled population began to dance. Even tired, no one could stop. Taking advantage of this, Faith calmly left the city. The prayer of St. Willibrord, who came to the place of the described events, saved him from dancing. The spell of the innocent Feith was called the dance of St. Vitus. The procession of jumpers was intended to save the population from the "tiring" dance, as well as from all ailments and diseases. For many years the procession of the jumpers was a great religious event. It was attended (mostly on foot) by believers from different parts of Luxembourg and from outside the country. The processional dance currently consists of two steps to the right and two steps to the left, while in the past three steps were taken forward and two back. The dancers line up in ranks of 7 or 5 people. Each participant holds a handkerchief by the corner. The procession moves forward quite slowly - it will take at least three hours to overcome the chosen route (includes passing in front of the tomb of St. Willibrord). All this is accompanied by a repetitive melody that can lead to a trance. At least ten thousand people gather along the streets to look at the amazing religious tradition.

That's all for now!

I hope it will be added