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Luxembourg's turbulent past remains alive through the impressive number of chateaux. Castles are a characteristic of the Luxembourg landscape. There were 109 chateaux in the Middle Ages, and nowadays, 76 are still standing or in ruins. |
Invasions and conquests, political instability and powerful rural nobility lead to the impressive number of chateaux spread across a territory of barely 2,600 sq. km. The Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neo-classical styles make a grand entrance to these ancient castles. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Art Nouveau styled palaces and mansions were built just before modernism.
BEAUFORT
Situated on the site of a roman fort, the chateau was built around 1200, then enlarged in around 1500, 1550 and the end of the 16th century. After the construction of the chateau in Renaissance style (1640) just next door, the mediaeval chateau was partially restored and opened to the public.
BOURSCHEID
Probably built in the 10th century, Bourscheid chateau was first mentioned in a document in 1095. In the 14th and 15th centuries, it was greatly enlarged and a fortification wall was built, flanked by six Gothic towers. The ruins of the chateau abandoned in the 19th century were bought by the State and opened to the public. The ruins of the chateau above the Sûre valley are illuminated.
CLERVAUX
Built in the 12th century, the chateau was enlarged and fortified considerably in the 15th century. Living accommodation was added in 1634/35. During the Battle of the Bulge (December 1944), a fire ravaged the chateau, which was completely restored afterwards. Now it houses the local authority offices, the museum of models of Luxembourg chateaux, a museum about the Battle of the Bulge and the prestigious photographic exhibition "The Family of Man".
Photo exhibition "The Family of Man"
Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed in January and February.
Exhibition of models of Luxembourg chateaux
Open in June daily from 1 to 5 p.m., from 1 July to 15 September daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., from 16 September to 31 March on Sundays and public holidays, and daily during the Christmas holidays from 1 to 5 p.m. Closed in January and February.
BETTEMBOURG
The present chateau on the plan was built in 1733-34 by incorporating part of the former chateau. The moats were filled in during the mid-19th century and incorporated into the grounds. Recently restored and renovated, it houses the local authority administration of Bettembourg and a hall with a stage in contemporary style, which is suitable for the organisation of seminars, receptions and congresses.
