Travel encyclopedia of the country of Luxembourg. Luxembourg

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LUXEMBOURG, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a state in Western Europe. Area 2586 thousand sq. km. Population 422.5 thousand people (1997). It borders on the west and north with Belgium, on the east with Germany and on the south with France. The capital city also bears the name Luxembourg, as does the adjacent province of Belgium, which occupies a larger area than the Grand Duchy. Since 1921 (with the exception of the period of German occupation in 1940–1945), Luxembourg has been in an economic union with Belgium. The country is included in economic union Benelux and the European Union (EU).

Nature.

The southern half of Luxembourg - Gutland - is a continuation of the Lorraine plateau and is characterized by undulating cuesta terrain. A system of ridges and ledges is expressed here, gradually descending to the east. Cultural landscapes predominate. In the north of the country, in Essling, occupied by the foothills of the Ardennes, highly dissected terrain with heights of up to 400–500 m is developed. high point– Mount Burgplatz (559 m). The most large river Luxembourg - Sur (Sauer) - originates in Belgium and flows to the east, then after confluence with the Ur to the southeast and south and flows into the Moselle. The Alzette, a southern tributary of the Sur, flows through the capital city of Luxembourg and the industrial cities of Esch-sur-Alzette, Mersch and Ettelbrück.

By climatic features Luxembourg is similar to the Netherlands and Belgium. Summer is warm, average temperature July 17° C. In winter, positive temperatures prevail, but in the foothills of the Ardennes there are sometimes frosts - down to -15° C. During the year in the city of Luxembourg, an average of 760 mm of precipitation falls, partly in the form of snow. In the north of the country, the average annual precipitation increases to 850–900 mm, and snowfalls occur more often. In the valleys of the Moselle and the lower reaches of the Sur, hail often falls.

More than 1/3 of Luxembourg's territory is occupied by oak and beech forests. They are concentrated in Essling and northern Gutland. IN upper parts larch and spruce appear on the slopes of the Ardennes. In some places there are heathers and peat bogs. In Luxembourg, such heat-loving plants as walnut, apricot, holly, boxwood, dogwood, and barberry are cultivated in gardens and parks.

The fauna is greatly depleted. You can see hares in the arable fields, and individual roe deer, chamois and wild boars in the forest thickets. Many squirrels live here. Birds include wood pigeons, jays and buzzards, as well as pheasants. A sparrowhawk became a rare visitor. The dense forest thickets are home to hazel grouse and capercaillie. There are trout in the rivers and streams of Essling.

Population.

The Celts, Franks and Germanic tribes who migrated through the area before and after the Roman invasion are the ancestors of the modern inhabitants of Luxembourg. The country has its own language - Luxembourgish, which is based on a dialect of German with numerous borrowings from French. French and German are also the official languages ​​of the country. In addition, many residents speak English. The predominant religion is Roman Catholic, but the constitution guarantees freedom of religion and there are small Protestant and Jewish communities in major cities.

The population of Luxembourg was 300 thousand people in 1930, 291 thousand in 1947 and 385 thousand according to the 1991 census. The population in 2009 is estimated at 491 thousand 775 people. During World War II there was a sharp decline in the population, especially males, but this loss was offset by population growth after 1950. Almost all of the increase is the result of immigration. In 1996 there were approx. 127 thousand people of foreign origin (mainly Portuguese and Italians) - 33% of the total population of the country. The birth rate has decreased from 31 per 1000 people at the beginning of the 20th century. to 11.92 in 2003, and the mortality rate is 8.78 per 1000 people. The infant mortality rate is 4.65 per 1000 births. Life expectancy in Luxembourg for men is 76 and for women 83.

Most of the population is concentrated in the southern part of the country. The capital city of Luxembourg had a population of 83.8 thousand people (2007). Other cities with a population of over 15 thousand people are Esch-sur-Alzette (27.9 thousand in 2004), Differdange (18.9 thousand in 2004) and Dudelange (17.5 thousand in 2003). Important tourist centers are Echternach and Mondorf-les-Bains.

Political system.

Luxembourg – a constitutional monarchy. The right of succession belongs to the Nassau family. Grand Duke Jean inherited the throne from Grand Duchess Charlotte in November 1964. In September 2000, Jean abdicated in favor of his son Prince Henri. Council members hold their positions until the end of their lives. Although the council is the highest advisory body to the Duke on matters of legislation and law, the Duke can nevertheless amend laws passed by the Chamber of Deputies (Parliament) and even temporarily veto laws. The Constitution, adopted on October 16, 1868, was amended in 1919 and several more times after 1948.

The legislative body - the Chamber of Deputies - consists of 60 members directly elected for a 5-year term. Administrative power is mainly in the hands of the prime minister and the cabinet. The party forming the government must have a majority of seats in the Chamber of Deputies. All adult citizens are required to vote in elections. Voting rights were granted to women in 1919. The Chamber of Deputies is elected by a system of proportional representation from four electoral districts. Luxembourg is divided into 12 cantons.

The largest in the country - the Christian Social People's Party - is Catholic, has existed since the 1870s, and protects the interests of the propertied segments of the population. The Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party is a social democratic party, created in the 1890s, affiliated with the Socialist International and based on trade unions. The liberal political movement was represented before the Second World War by the Radical Liberal Party, and since 1947 by the Liberal Party. Other political parties – Communist Party of Luxembourg, Greens, etc.

Armed forces.

Before World War II, Luxembourg, in accordance with the terms of the London Treaty of 1867, had only border troops of 300 people. Despite international guarantees of neutrality, Luxembourg was occupied by German troops during the First and Second (in 1940) World Wars. Therefore, in 1945 the country introduced compulsory military service with a short period of service, and in 1948 the article on neutrality was removed from the constitution. In 1967, instead of mandatory military service the recruitment of volunteers into the army, numbering 800 people, and the gendarmerie, consisting of 560 people, was legalized. Luxembourg is a member of the UN, NATO, the EU and a number of other international organizations, and has military cooperation agreements with Belgium and the Netherlands.

Economy.

In the 1990s, Luxembourg was one of the most prosperous countries in the West with a highly developed economy. The basis of the economy is primarily the developed service sector, including in the financial field.

In 2002, gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $21.94 billion, or $48,900 per capita (versus $26,556 in Belgium and $43,233 in Switzerland). Based on purchasing power parity, the expenditures of the Luxembourg population in per capita terms were $16,827 (in the USA - $17,834). Annual GNP growth averaged 5.5% in the early 1990s, well above the EU average.

Industry.

There are rich deposits near the southern border of Luxembourg iron ore, belonging to the vast Lorraine basin. In 1970, approx. 5.7 million tons of ore, but production declined rapidly and was finally curtailed at the beginning of 1997. At the same time, the last blast furnace was extinguished. Significant steel production in recent years has operated on the basis of imported ore, imported mainly from France. Steel accounted for a third of GDP in 1952, but only 6% in 1994. During the period 1974–1990, steel production fell from 6.4 million tons to 3.5 million tons, and pig iron production fell by half. The main steelmaking concern ARBED, founded in 1911, was the country's largest industrial enterprise. Currently, steel production has been reoriented to the use of scrap metal as raw materials and smelting in electric furnaces.

Banking plays an important role in the Luxembourg economy, and considerable attention is paid to the creation of telecommunications networks and the production of audio and video equipment. Chemical products, machines, plastics, fabrics, glass, porcelain are produced. Many new businesses were created by large US firms. For foreign companies, a very attractive factor is that local workers speak several languages.

Almost all energy consumed in Luxembourg is imported, including oil, natural gas, and coal.

Agriculture.

Approximately a quarter of Luxembourg's territory is cultivated, and another quarter is occupied by meadows and pastures. The main branches of agriculture are meat and dairy farming and grain and fodder crop production.

The average farm size in Luxembourg is small - approx. 7 hectares, and most of them practice mixed farming. The soils are poor, sandy; to increase their fertility, phosphorus fertilizers, a by-product of metallurgical production, are applied. The main crops are potatoes, wheat, oats, barley, rye and clover for seeds. Grapes are also grown; The Moselle Valley produces quality white wines. The need to import food grains and some types of feed grains is increasing. Agricultural yields are significantly lower than in Belgium and the Netherlands. The country's agriculture receives subsidies from the state and the EU to maintain stable prices and direct payments to farmers. In 1995, agriculture accounted for 1.1% of GDP and 2.7% of total employment (versus 5.4% in 1980). Although the country's economy has benefited greatly from participation in the Belgian-Luxembourg Economic Union and the Benelux customs union, agriculture has not been modernized at the same level as other sectors of the economy.

Finance.

Banking and financial services have become a major economic activity, accounting for 31.9% of GDP and 9.2% of employment in 1995. Luxembourg is one of the financial centers of Europe, and in 1995 there were representative offices of 220 foreign banks, which were attracted by the most favorable banking laws in the EU adopted in the late 1970s, guaranteeing the secrecy of deposits. However, the harmonization of laws in the EU countries, carried out in 1993, somewhat neutralizes the advantages of Luxembourg over other countries of the union. In 1992, total holdings financial organizations Luxembourg increased to $376 billion, mostly in US dollars and German marks. In 1994, there were 12,289 holding companies operating in the country.

In the 1996 budget, revenues amounted to 159 billion Luxembourg francs, and expenses - 167.2 billion. Indirect taxes accounted for 42% of all revenues, and direct taxes - 48%. Total tax revenues amounted to 45% of GDP - the highest figure for EU countries.

The Luxembourg franc and the Belgian franc circulated in Luxembourg. The currency was issued by the Luxembourg Monetary Institute, which oversees the financial sector. The central bank is the National Bank of Belgium.

Since January 1, 2002, the currency of Luxembourg is the Euro (EURO).

International trade

Luxembourg is linked to Belgium's foreign trade, and the National Bank of Belgium handles Luxembourg's international operations. The state is heavily dependent on foreign trade. The majority of industrial products are exported, with 1/3 of them being metals and finished products. Luxembourg fully imports energy resources for industry - coal and oil; automobiles, textiles, cotton, food and agricultural machinery are also imported. Until the mid-1970s, the balance of trade was generally positive, with export receipts exceeding import costs, but declines in steel production changed the balance significantly. In 1995, the value of exports amounted to 7.6 billion dollars, and the value of imports - 9.7 billion. The trade balance is reduced due to large incomes of the financial sector. Luxembourg's main foreign trade partners are EU countries.

Transport and communications.

Transport in Luxembourg has a high level of development. The length of the railway network is 271 km, and the road network is 5100 km. The main meridional railway is connected to the lines of France and Belgium, and the latitudinal railway connects the lines of Germany and Belgium. The only airport, Findel, is located 5 km east of the capital.

Luxembourg plays an important role in European radio and television broadcasting. Radio-Tele-Luxembourg, a joint-stock company with a predominance of French and Belgian capital, owns one of the most powerful stations in the world, serving many European countries. In 1988–1996, this joint-stock company financed the launch of six pan-European ASTRA television satellites.

Education.

Schooling is compulsory for children aged 6 to 15 years. In the 1994–1995 school year, 27 thousand children attended primary schools. Secondary schools, including vocational schools, had 27 thousand students. Children learn German and French, the first in primary school, and the second - in the middle. There are no higher educational institutions in the country.

STORY

Luxembourg, which was on the path of many conquerors, more than once fell under the rule of German, French, Austrian, Dutch and Spanish rulers. Despite numerous changes in political status, he retained his identity and gained independence.

What is known in history as Luxembourg includes the territory extending beyond the modern boundaries of the Grand Duchy - the province of the same name in Belgium and small areas of neighboring countries. The word “Luxembourg” itself means “small castle” or “fortress”; this was the name of the stone-hewn fortifications of the capital city, which in Europe was known as “Gibraltar of the North.” Situated on steep cliffs rising above the Alzette River, this fortress was almost impregnable and existed until 1867.

The Romans may have been the first to exploit this strategically important site and fortify it when they ruled the region of Belgica in Gaul. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Luxembourg was conquered by the Franks in the 5th century. and later became part of Charlemagne's vast empire. It is known that one of Charles's descendants, Siegfried I, was the ruler of this area in 963–987, and in the 11th century. Conrad, who assumed the title of Count of Luxembourg, became the founder of a dynasty that ruled until the 14th century. The settlement of Luxembourg received city rights in 1244. In 1437, as a result of the marriage of one of Conrad's relatives to the German King Albert II, the Duchy of Luxembourg passed to the Habsburg dynasty. In 1443 it was captured by the Duke of Burgundy, and Habsburg power was restored only in 1477. In 1555 it went to the Spanish king Philip II and, together with Holland and Flanders, came under Spanish rule.

In the 17th century Luxembourg was repeatedly involved in wars between Spain and the increasingly powerful France. According to the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, Louis XIV recaptured the southwestern edge of the duchy with the cities of Thionville and Montmédy. During another military campaign in 1684, the French captured the fortress of Luxembourg and remained there for 13 years, until, under the terms of the Peace of Ryswick, Louis was forced to return it to Spain along with the lands he had captured in Belgium. After long wars, Belgium and Luxembourg came under the rule of the Austrian Habsburgs in 1713 and a relatively peaceful period began.

It was interrupted by the French Revolution. Republican troops entered Luxembourg in 1795, and the area remained under French rule during the Napoleonic Wars. At the Congress of Vienna 1814–1815, European powers first carved out Luxembourg as a Grand Duchy and gave it to King William I of the Netherlands in exchange for the former possessions, which were annexed to the Duchy of Hesse. Luxembourg, however, was simultaneously included in the confederation of independent states - the German Confederation, and Prussian troops were allowed to maintain their garrison in the capital's fortress.

The next change occurred in 1830, when Belgium, which also belonged to William I, rebelled. With the exception of the capital, which was held by a Prussian garrison, all of Luxembourg joined the rebels. Trying to overcome the division in the region, the great powers in 1831 proposed dividing Luxembourg: its western part with a French-speaking population became a province of independent Belgium. This decision was finally approved by the Treaty of London in 1839, and William remained the ruler of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, which had greatly decreased in size. The Great Powers made it clear that they regarded the duchy as a state independent of the Netherlands, bound only by personal union with the ruler of that country. In 1842, Luxembourg joined the Customs Union of German States, founded in 1834. With the collapse of the German Confederation in 1866, the prolonged presence of the Prussian garrison in the city of Luxembourg began to cause discontent in France. King William III of the Netherlands offered to sell his rights to the Grand Duchy to Napoleon III, but at this time an acute conflict broke out between France and Prussia. The Second London Conference met in May 1867, and the Treaty of London, signed in September of the same year, resolved the simmering differences. The Prussian garrison was withdrawn from the city of Luxembourg, the fortress was liquidated. The independence and neutrality of Luxembourg were proclaimed. The throne in the Grand Duchy remained the privilege of the Nassau dynasty.

The personal union with the Netherlands was broken in 1890, when William III died and his daughter Wilhelmina inherited the Dutch throne. The Grand Duchy passed to another branch of the House of Nassau, and Grand Duke Adolf began to rule. After Adolf's death in 1905, the throne was taken by his son Wilhelm, who ruled until 1912. Then the reign of his daughter Grand Duchess Maria Adelaide began.

On August 2, 1914, Luxembourg was captured by Germany. At the same time, German troops entered Belgium. The German Foreign Minister promised Luxembourg to pay reparations for the violation of its neutrality, and the occupation of the country continued until the end of the First World War. With the restoration of independence in 1918, a number of changes occurred in Luxembourg. On January 9, 1919, Maria Adelaide abdicated the throne in favor of her sister Charlotte. The latter received an overwhelming majority in a referendum held in 1919 to decide whether Luxembourg wished to remain a Grand Duchy under the ruling house of Nassau. At the same time, constitutional reforms began in the spirit of democratization.

At the plebiscite of 1919, the population of Luxembourg expressed a desire to preserve the country's independence, but at the same time voted for an economic union with France. However, France, in order to improve relations with Belgium, rejected this proposal and thereby prompted Luxembourg to enter into an agreement with Belgium. As a result, in 1921 a railway, customs and monetary union with Belgium was established that lasted for half a century.

Luxembourg's neutrality was violated for the second time by Germany when Wehrmacht troops entered the country on May 10, 1940. The Grand Duchess and members of her government fled to France, and after the latter's capitulation they organized the government of Luxembourg in exile, located in London and Montreal. The German occupation was followed by the annexation of Luxembourg to Hitler's Reich in August 1942. In response, the country's population declared a general strike, to which the Germans responded with massive repressions. About 30 thousand residents, or more than 10% of the total population, including most young men, were arrested and expelled from the country.

In September 1944, Allied troops liberated Luxembourg, and on September 23 the government in exile returned to its homeland. The northern regions of Luxembourg were recaptured by German troops during the Ardennes offensive and were finally liberated only in January 1945.

Luxembourg took part in many post-war international agreements. He participated in the establishment of the UN, Benelux (which also included Belgium and the Netherlands), NATO and the EU. Luxembourg's role in the Council of Europe is also significant. Luxembourg signed the Schengen Agreement in June 1990, abolishing border controls in the Benelux countries, France and Germany. In February 1992, the country signed the Maastricht Treaty. Two Luxembourg representatives, Gaston Thorne (1981–1984) and Jacques Santerre (since 1995), served as presidents of EU commissions.

The HSNP has remained Luxembourg's largest party since 1919; she headed all governments in the period before World War II. From 1945 to 1947, the country was governed by a broad coalition involving the Christian Social People's Party, the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party, the Communist Party and liberals from the Patriotic Democratic Movement. Until 1958 and in 1964–1968, the KhSNP headed government cabinets in a bloc with the socialists, in 1959–1964 and 1969–1974 in a coalition with the democrats. In 1974, the Democrats and Socialists managed to remove the KSNP from power, but the center-left alliance lasted only 5 years.

Luxembourg at the end of the 20th - early 21st centuries

Political stability and banking laws guaranteeing the secrecy of deposits have attracted large investments in Luxembourg's industrial and service sectors.

In the general elections in June 1999, the ruling KSNP and LSRP suffered setbacks: they received 19 and 13 seats out of 60, respectively, losing 2 and 4 seats. On the contrary, the Democrats strengthened their position, taking 15 seats in parliament (3 more than in 1994). 7 seats were won by the association of pensioners, 5 by the Greens, 1 by the left bloc. After the elections, a new government was formed from representatives of the KSNP and the Democratic Party, led by Jean-Claude Juncker, who was re-elected to this post in 2004.

In October 2000, Grand Duke Jean abdicated the throne in favor of his son, Prince Henri.

In 2002, the EURO became the country's national currency.

Regular tourists know that sometimes a very small state can leave the most vivid impressions, and Luxembourg, translated from the old German language as “small castle,” is no exception. Today we will talk about traveling to Luxembourg. In official language, the country is called the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, it is located in Western Europe and is geographically bordered by countries such as Belgium, Germany, and France. By the way, this country is part of the Benelux zone, along with Holland and Belgium. The area occupied by Luxembourg is small by country standards, only 2,600 square kilometers. Local residents can be considered polyglots, since almost everyone speaks at least three languages, and this is no wonder, because in this dwarf country there are three languages ​​in use: - - the language of communication between the authorities, as well as science and culture; - German – language of means mass media; - Luxembourgish is a spoken language, which is used in everyday life by all indigenous residents, no matter what their status. Well, it’s worth saying that English language it is also used here, so in this small country of Luxembourg, they will definitely understand you. Despite the small size of the duchy, Luxembourg is one of the richest European countries, with a well-developed economy and the highest standard of living.

Luxembourg is a major financial center, with numerous branches of foreign banks, attracted to the country by its very low taxes. Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy, represented by Grand Duke Henri of Nassau. Payments are made in euros, since the country is part of the eurozone, so if you want to purchase a tour to Luxembourg, you need to obtain a Schengen visa. Considering that the country more than once fell under the rule of Germany, France, Austria, and the Netherlands, this influenced the architecture and culture, so there is something to admire here. Let's start with the capital of the duchy of the same name - Luxembourg, although there are a lot of attractions in it, you can explore them on foot. The main building of the capital is the Palace of the Grand Dukes, but it did not become the residence of local monarchs immediately, but since 1890, having previously been the town hall, the residence of the French administration, and the residence of Dutch governors. During World War II, the Germans turned the residence into a tavern with a concert hall; at that time, many items of utensils, furniture, and art objects disappeared from the palace, which then popped up every now and then on German antique markets. But in 1945, the Grand Ducal family returned from exile, and Grand Duchess Charlotte restored the building to its proper form. In addition to your rich history The palace is simply a wonderful place that is definitely worth a visit when traveling to Luxembourg.

In Luxembourg, there are not only a lot of pompous palaces, gloomy castle ruins, elegant churches, one of the main attractions of the capital is the Bock casemates. So be sure to visit them. The casemates were built deep in the Le Boc rock under the Luxembourg Fortress that existed on this site a long time ago and stretch more than twenty kilometers in length and down to a depth of forty meters. These are mysterious passages, reference points, ominous dark chambers, here and there meager beams of light break through the windows in the rock, and there are also unexpected exits to the “surface”, only at a hundred-meter height. But the views that open up, you can see from these windows and improvised “balconies” - incredible, breathtaking. In front of you, as if in the palm of your hand, lies the Petrus River gorge, as well as the ancient quarter of Ram. During World War II, casemates helped civilians hide from air raids, and today many residents of the city’s ancient houses can boast that their basements communicate through underground passages with the Bock casemates. Any tourist can find the Bok casemates, even those who decide to travel to Luxembourg on their own, because the rock can be seen from anywhere in the city center; the entrance is located near the Alzette River. If you are so interested in the history of casemates, then you can purchase a ticket for an excursion program; it most often includes an additional visit to the archaeological crypt, where you can see finds from the walls of ancient casemates.

Our next recommended point of visit when traveling to Luxembourg is Beaufort Castle - it used to be the most powerful fortress in the east of Luxembourg, and although today it is a romantic and picturesque ruin, it is very popular among tourists. Having visited this place, you will be able to wander among the remains of the fortress wall overgrown with green moss, sit on the shore of a wonderful, albeit small lake, look into the Renaissance palace, where you will be treated to delicious blackcurrant liqueur and tell you glorious history This ancient building, references to which are found in the chronicles of the twelfth century. Special attention It is worth paying attention to the ancient part of Beaufort Castle, there is a prison with a torture chamber, in which all kinds of tools and devices of the executioners of those centuries are presented in abundance. The Main Castle Tower is also open to the public; you can go up there and look at the wonderful panorama of the surrounding area of ​​Beaufort. Most often, the influx of tourists in this place occurs from May to October; at this time, fun festivities, fun fairs, folk festivals are held at Beaufort Castle, and in the evenings they turn on the amazingly beautiful illumination of the ancient walls.

Very graceful national symbol Luxembourg is the Adolphe Bridge. It has a strict but elegant silhouette, it is located above the picturesque valley of the Petrus River, there is not a single tourist who visited Luxembourg and did not take at least one photo against its background. In the evenings, the bridge arches are decorated with lights and illuminations. The first stone of the bridge was personally laid by Grand Duke Adolf on July 14, 1900. What is interesting is that it is a continuation of the Royal Boulevard.

The next attraction of Luxembourg is the “Golden Frau” monument - a twenty-meter granite obelisk that appeared after the First World War as a tribute to the memory of the fallen Luxembourgers who bravely fought for the country’s independence in the French army.
The southern part of the capital can be proud of the presence here of the famous Notre Dame Cathedral of the 17th century. The architecture of the cathedral is made in the Gothic and Renaissance styles. Every year on the fifth Sunday of Easter, pilgrims from all over the world flock to the image of Our Lady of Consolation of All Those Who Sorrow. In addition, there are a lot of interesting sculptures, for example, two massive bronze lions that guard the entrance to the tomb of the Grand Dukes of Luxembourg. The Cathedral also houses the tomb of the King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg, John the Blind.
As you understand, despite the fact that the country is small, this will not make a trip to Luxembourg any less exciting and educational; it will captivate you with its beauty, and you will also feel that time has stopped in this country.

Luxembourg is a small country located in the central part of the European Union. According to recent studies, the standard of living in the country is one of the highest in Europe. The local culture is very unusual. Despite the fact that industrial development here is very high, many people still continue to engage in traditional farming: livestock farming, gardening, etc. Most of the cities are old and their layout remains unchanged to this day, while maintaining the flavor of the past.

Geography of Luxembourg

Luxembourg is located in Western Europe and is adjacent to large cities on all sides. European countries(France, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands). The relief is hilly and flat. The area of ​​the country is very small, only 2.6 thousand square meters. km.

Luxembourg has an area of ​​2,586.4 km. sq., in terms of area it ranks 167th in the world.

Population

502,207 people.

The state currency is the euro (EUR).

Official language– Luxembourgish, French, German.

Visa to Luxembourg

Luxembourg is part of the Schengen countries, so residents of the CIS need to obtain a visa. When submitting an application, you must provide evidence of sufficient funds to live in the country, at the rate of 50 USD. per person per day. If a child under 18 years of age is entering the country, a notarized copy of the power of attorney from the parent remaining in Russia is required. If the trip is made during school hours, you must obtain a certificate from the place of study. Typically, the application is reviewed within 10-14 days after its submission.

Weather in Luxembourg

The country has a very mild temperate climate. In January, the average temperature is 0 C, and in July +17 C. Most of the precipitation falls in winter; the annual amount is 700 mm. It is most comfortable to visit Luxembourg in May-October.

Sights of Luxembourg

For the first time, Luxembourg became known in written sources in 963; at that time its name was translated as “Little Castle”. Those who come here for the first time are surprised at how such a diverse topography could fit into such a small state. The capital is the city of Luxembourg. Here is the strongest fortress in all of Europe, “Luxembourg”, which was built by a French marshal in 1868. Some parts of this building have survived to this day: the fortress gates, passages in the rocks, towers, walls. Near the ancient fortifications there is a park that ends in a cliff, from which there is a beautiful view of the small suburb of Bock, as well as the ruins of an old castle. Many tourists consider it their duty to visit the underground labyrinths of Bock Castle, as well as La Petrus. During World War II, more than 35,000 people hid in these places. When it comes tourist season, the ruins and walls of all buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating an amazing atmosphere. The favorite place of all the citizens of the capital, as well as tourists, is the Royal Boulevard, which is considered the center of the city. In this place, ancient buildings are surrounded by modern offices, banks, financial institutions, etc. Not far from here, there is a small Arm Square, which used to be a meeting place for local residents, but now it has turned into a roadway, where cozy restaurants and bars line the sides, and it has been replaced by Hamilius Square. The city is full of various museums and galleries, among which it is worth highlighting the City History Museum, the Art Gallery, and the Postal Museum. In addition to the capital, Luxembourg has many more interesting cities. For example, the most beautiful and picturesque city in the country is Echternach. In addition to the amazing landscapes that can be seen here, it is also one of the oldest cities, today it is more than 1000 years old. You should definitely go to the ruins of the former city wall, as well as visit the Wolf Mouth Canyon. This canyon is considered the most famous natural monument in the country. A little to the west is an area called “Little Switzerland”. This place, heavily forested with rocky areas, creates unique landscapes, and on the tops of these cliffs there are small castles, although many of them have long been destroyed. It will be interesting to visit the northernmost city of the duchy - Clairvaux. Clervaux is located in a beautiful location: on the banks of the Clerf River and surrounded by picturesque forests. This city makes a huge impression on tourists with its architecture, since almost all the houses here are made in the Gothic style. On the hill of the city there is a dilapidated knight's castle, which also gives the feeling of a medieval city. Another large city in Luxembourg is Wiltz. This place, just like the capital of the state, has two parts: the “upper” and “lower” city. The city, despite its unusual development, a large number of old buildings and small overgrown ravines, is still very beautiful, although it looks like a too provincial place.

National cuisine of Luxembourg

To a greater extent, the national cuisine of this small state has many similarities with Belgian and German cuisine, but it still has a number of distinctive and unique features. Thanks to well-preserved traditions, many unique recipes have remained here since ancient times, which to some extent can be called attractions. Locals love to eat meat dishes most of all, for example, the most popular meat dishes include smoked pork, served with beans, Ardennes ham, famous in Europe, suckling pigs and much more. Almost all meat dishes must be accompanied by a side dish of vegetables. There is always cheese on the table, which is made by local residents, and in the summer best dish for city residents it is considered freshwater fish and crayfish. They make good pies and other baked goods here. Pies are most often made with fruit filling. A huge number of different types of cookies are also produced here, which can be found in any city. No less famous here are chocolate producers and chocolates. Such products are manufactured at private enterprises and have a special “master’s mark” on them.

Transport

Transport in Luxembourg is represented by buses and trains, and city buses operate in the capital. Distinctive feature The transport system is that the transport here is regional, that is, trains run to the border stations of neighboring countries (Germany, Belgium and France). Buses run to all bus stations in the country. The capital's urban transport is represented by 25 bus routes; only 3 routes operate at night. You can get to the airport by bus route 16. Tariffs for all types of public transport are the same. For a ticket with the possibility of traveling for an hour, you need to pay 1.2 euros, but you can buy ten such tickets at once for 9.2 euros. In addition, you can buy a pass for one day - 4.6 euros and for five days - 18.5 euros. In addition to buses, taxis have become widespread. You can order a taxi at special parking lots near hotels, call them by phone, and in some places you can simply stop them. For one kilometer of driving you need to pay 0.65 euros and 1 euro for landing. On weekends, the fare is 25% higher, and at night by 10%.

Currency exchange in Luxembourg

On weekdays, banks are open from 09.00 to 16.00, and in the capital on Saturdays until 12.00. Exchange offices are open daily at the airport until 20.30, and at railway stations until 21.00 Use credit cards and traveler's checks are possible in any city, even the most provincial. Some stores only accept credit cards for purchases above 100-200 euros.

Electricity

220V/50Hz (European type sockets).

Religion

Almost the entire population of the country (97%) is Catholic. There are also a few Protestant communities.

Safety

Security in the country is practically the highest in the world. But it is advisable to follow the basic rules and not take large amounts of money and documents with you.

Health

Medical services High Quality. However, the tourist must have insurance. Getting first aid in Luxembourg is free, but you have to pay for further treatment.

Russian Consulate in Luxembourg

Сhâteau de Beggen L-1719 Luxembourg
Tel: (+352) 422 333, (+352) 422 929

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National flag of Luxembourg.

Luxembourg (Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, French Grand-Duche de Luxembourg) is a state in Western Europe, located between the Moselle and Meuse rivers. In the north and west, Luxembourg borders on Belgium (the adjacent province of Belgium is also called Luxembourg), in the east - on Germany, in the south - on France. Territory area - 2586 sq. km. The population of the state is 480 thousand people. Native Luxembourgers make up three quarters of the country's population. The rest are Germans, Belgians, Italians, Portuguese, French. Most of the believers are Catholics.

Luxembourg. Upper city.

The official languages ​​in the country are French, German and Luxembourgish (one of the Rhine dialects of German); Luxembourgish was adopted as official only in 1985. Luxembourgish is spoken on the streets and at home, French is spoken more often in government offices, and German is the language of business and the press. English is spoken in the capital, but is hardly spoken in rural areas. The country is divided into three administrative districts (Luxembourg, Diekirch and Grevenmacher), 12 cantons, 118 urban and rural communes. The capital is Luxembourg. Other large cities in the country are Esch-sur-Alzette, Differdange, Dudelange; tourist centers - Echternach and Mondorf-les-Bains.

Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy. The current constitution came into force on October 17, 1868 and has been amended and supplemented several times. The head of state is the Grand Duke of the Nassau dynasty. Since 1964, the country has been led by Grand Duke Jean (born January 5, 1921). In September 2000, he abdicated power in favor of his son Prince Henri (born April 16, 1955). The highest legislative body is the unicameral parliament (Chamber of Deputies). The head of government is the minister of state.

Natural conditions

The southern part of the country is a continuation of the Lorraine plateau and is a hilly medium-altitude area with a pronounced system of ridges and ledges, gradually descending to the east; in the north there are spurs of the Ardennes (height up to 565 m) and the Rhine Slate Mountains. In the north of the country, in Essling, occupied by the foothills of the Ardennes, a highly dissected terrain with heights of up to 400-500 m is developed. The highest point is Mount Burgplatz (559 m). The rivers belong to the Moselle basin. The largest river in Luxembourg - the Sur (Sauer) - originates in Belgium and flows to the east, then, after confluence with the Ur, to the southeast and south and flows into the Moselle. The Alzette, a southern tributary of the Sur, flows through the capital city of Luxembourg and the industrial cities of Esch-sur-Alzette, Mersch and Ettelbrück. There are trout in the rivers and streams of Essling.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, when Luxembourg was part of France, it was called the Department of Forêt (“Forest Department”). Until now, about a third of Luxembourg's territory is covered by forests (on the plains there are deciduous trees - oak and beech trees, in the mountains - coniferous trees). They are concentrated in Essling and northern Gutland. Larch and spruce appear in the upper slopes of the Ardennes. In some places there are heathers and peat bogs.

Orchards and vineyards grow in river valleys. In the gardens and parks of Luxembourg, heat-loving plants such as walnut, apricot, holly, boxwood, dogwood, and barberry are cultivated. In terms of climatic features, Luxembourg is similar to the Netherlands and Belgium. The climate is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. Winters are mild (average temperatures in January +1 °C), summers are not hot (average temperatures in July +17 °C). Precipitation is over 700 mm per year. In the foothills of the Ardennes, snow often falls in winter, sometimes with frosts down to –15 ° C. The sunniest months are May, June, July and August; however, the first half of September can also be sunny.

Natural attractions

The southern, largest part of Luxembourg (68% of the territory, 87% of the population) - Gutland ("good land") - is a hilly, medium-altitude area, cultivated economic activity of people. Small fields, gardens, meadows and pastures, small forests and thickets of bushes - all this constantly alternates with each other, creating an extremely diverse landscape.

The area east of the city of Echternach, along the White and Black Erenz rivers, called “Luxembourg Switzerland,” stands out as a unique corner of the country. Here, on the border of Triassic limestones and Jurassic sandstones, bizarre pointed peaks and deep gorges with steep walls were formed; stone pillars are piled above the gorges, further enhancing the idea of ​​height and depth.

In the extreme south of Gutland, on the border with France, is the resort of Mondorf, famous for its mineral waters, as well as the balneological resort of Mondor-les-Bains (in the Moselle valley). On the plateau near the town of Useldange there is the Luxembourg Sailing Circle, where from the beginning of May to the end of October, those who want to practice hang gliding can undergo an “air baptism”. There are several nature reserves in Luxembourg; in the Ardennes there is the German-Luxembourg Forest Park ("Deutsch-Luxemburgischer") - a natural national park, part of which is located in Germany.

Economy

Luxembourg is a highly developed industrial country, one of the most prosperous countries in Europe. The structure of GDP is dominated by the services sector, finance and trade. These industries employ about 50% of the economically active population. Until the mid-1990s, the leading industry was iron and steel, which developed from the rich iron ore deposits (belonging to the vast Lorraine basin) near the southern border of Luxembourg. In 1997, iron ore mining was stopped and the last blast furnace was extinguished. In the country's economy for a long time The steel industry played a major role. The main steelmaking concern ARBED, founded in 1911, was the country's largest industrial enterprise. Later, steel production was reoriented to the use of scrap metal as raw material and smelting in electric furnaces. Almost all energy consumed in Luxembourg is imported, including oil, natural gas, and coal.

The chemical, leather, cement, earthenware (glass, porcelain), woodworking, clothing (including weaving), and food-flavoring industries are also developing; creation of telecommunication networks and production of audio and video equipment. Luxembourg is a major international financial and tourism center. In the 20th century Luxembourg has become one of the world's largest banking centers. There are over 200 of the world's largest banks operating in the country. Since 1929, the government has encouraged large multinational companies to register in the country - these associations have branches around the world, but are very heavily taxed in their “home” countries. The liberal tax climate and the almost complete absence of taxation of offshore transactions attracts numerous foreign capital to the country.

With high industrial development in the country, they continue to engage in traditional branches of agriculture - meat and dairy farming, horticulture, viticulture. The vineyards along the Moselle River are especially famous for producing excellent wine. The country is a member of the Benelux economic union and the European Union (EU). On January 1, 2002, the monetary unit of Luxembourg, the Luxembourg franc, was replaced by the euro.

Story

Luxembourg fell under the rule of German, French, Austrian, Dutch and Spanish rulers more than once. After the fall of the Roman Empire, this territory was conquered by the Franks in the 5th century, and later became part of the vast empire of Charlemagne. In 963-987 one of Charles's descendants, Siegfried, built a fortress on steep cliffs rising above the Alzette River and made it the center of his possessions along the Moselle and in the Ardennes mountains. And in the 11th century. Conrad, who assumed the title of Count of Luxembourg, became the founder of the dynasty. The male line of this family was cut short in 1136. Luxembourg passed through the female line to the Count of Namur, and then to the Count of Limburg.

The founder of the Luxembourg-Limburg dynasty was Henry I the Blonde (1247-1281), whose son Henry II fell in the Battle of Woringen, which separated Limburg from Luxembourg, transferring it to the power of the Dukes of Brabant. In 1308, the son of Henry II, Henry III of Luxembourg, was elected Holy Roman Emperor under the name of Henry VII, and founded the Luxembourg dynasty, which later included the emperors Charles IV, Wenceslas (Czech king Wenceslas IV) and Sigismund I. In 1354 Charles IV transferred the County of Luxembourg, which he elevated to the level of a duchy, to his brother, Wenceslas. After the death of the childless Wenceslas, the duchy passed from generation to generation. So, since 1419 it belonged to the Dukes of Burgundy.

After the death of Sigismund in 1437, as a result of the marriage of his daughter to the Austrian Duke Albrecht V of Habsburg (German King Albrecht II), the Duchy of Luxembourg passed to the Habsburg dynasty. In 1443 it was captured by the Duke of Burgundy, and the power of the Habsburgs was restored only in 1477. In 1555, together with Holland and Flanders, Luxembourg went to the Spanish Habsburg - Philip II.

In the 17th century Luxembourg was repeatedly involved in wars between Spain and the increasingly powerful France. According to the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, Louis XIV reconquered the southwestern edge of the duchy with the cities of Thionville and Montmédy. During the military campaign of 1684, the French captured the fortress of Luxembourg and remained there for 13 years, until, under the terms of the Peace of Ryswick, Louis was forced to return it to Spain along with the lands he had captured in Belgium. And only in 1713, after long wars, under the terms of the Peace of Utrecht, Belgium and the territory of the modern Duchy of Luxembourg came back under the rule of the Austrian Habsburgs.

After the Great French Revolution, the Luxembourg fortress was taken not by weapons, but by blockade. Republican French troops entered Luxembourg in 1795, and the area remained under French rule until 1813. In 1815, by decision of the Congress of Vienna, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was created, the crown of which was transferred to the King of the United Netherlands (modern Belgium and the Netherlands) William I (Willem I) in exchange for his former possessions, which were annexed to the Duchy of Hesse. At the same time, some areas were separated from the former Luxembourg in favor of Prussia. Luxembourg found itself in a personal union with the Netherlands. At the same time, Luxembourg was included in the confederation of independent states - the German Confederation (and was part of it until 1860), and Prussian troops were allowed to maintain their garrison in the capital's fortress.

The revolution of 1830 in Belgium also affected Luxembourg, with the exception of the capital, which was held by a Prussian garrison. This led to the dismemberment of the rebellious country: the western, French-speaking (Walloon) part (two-thirds of the territory) was transferred by the Treaty of London in 1839 to Belgium as the independent province of Luxembourg. And William I remained the ruler of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, reduced in size to its current borders and connected with the ruler of the Netherlands only by personal union. In 1841, Wilhelm II octroied (granted) a special constitution for Luxembourg, and from 1842 to 1919 Luxembourg was part of the Customs Union of German States.

After the collapse of the German Confederation in 1866, the prolonged stay of the Prussian garrison in the city of Luxembourg began to displease France. Negotiations were held between William III and Napoleon III about the sale of Luxembourg, but at this time an acute conflict broke out between France and Prussia. By decision of the London Conference of 1867, the Prussian garrison was withdrawn from the city of Luxembourg, and the fortifications of Luxembourg were razed to the ground. The independence and neutrality of Luxembourg were proclaimed. The throne in the Grand Duchy remained the privilege of the Nassau dynasty.

The personal union with the Netherlands was broken in 1890 after the death of William III. In the Netherlands the crown passed to his daughter Wilhelmina, and in Luxembourg, where according to ancient laws the throne was passed only through the male line, to Grand Duke Adolphus, representing another branch of the House of Nassau. Adolf was succeeded by his son William IV (1905-1912), and Wilhelm (with a change in the law of succession) by his daughter Maria Adelaide.

During the First World War 1914-1918. Luxembourg was occupied German army. On January 9, 1919, Mary Adelaide abdicated the throne in favor of her sister Charlotte. In 1919, a referendum was held to decide whether Luxembourg wished to remain a Grand Duchy with the ruling house of Nassau. The population of Luxembourg voted for the country's independence, but at the same time for an economic union with France, which, in order to improve relations with Belgium, rejected this proposal and thereby prompted Luxembourg to conclude an agreement with Belgium. As a result, in 1921, an economic (including customs) union with Belgium was established that had lasted for half a century.

Luxembourg's neutrality was again violated by Germany when troops entered the country on May 10, 1940. Following the German invasion, Grand Duchess Charlotte organized a government in exile based in London and Montreal. German plans to annex Luxembourg in August 1942 were thwarted by the Luxembourg General Strike, to which the Germans responded with massive reprisals. About 30 thousand residents (more than 10% of the total population), including most young men, were arrested and expelled from the country. In September 1944, Allied troops liberated Luxembourg, and the government in exile returned to its homeland. The northern regions of Luxembourg were recaptured by German troops during the Ardennes Operation and were finally liberated only in January 1945.

In 1944-1948. The Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg united in the Benelux customs union, and in 1958 they created an economic union. In 1957, Luxembourg became one of the founders of the EEC, and in June 1990, an agreement was signed at Schengen Castle, abolishing border controls in the Benelux countries, France and Germany. In February 1992, the country joined the EU.

Culture

Neolithic ceramics, dolmens, Celtic and ancient Roman monuments (remains of baths, military camps, towers, bas-reliefs, mosaics) were discovered on the territory of Luxembourg. During early Middle Ages The main artistic center was the Benedictine monastery in Echternach, where beautiful miniatures were made, reflecting the 8th-10th centuries. Irish, and at the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries. Ottonian traditions. Carved frames of the Gospels with ivory plates were also made.

In the 11th century Numerous castles (preserved only in ruins), Romanesque chapels (the ten-sided chapel of Vianden Castle) and basilicas (the Church of St. Willibrordus in Echternach, 1017-1031) with sculptural decoration were erected. Gothic churches of the 14th-16th centuries. (in the cities of Luxembourg, Rindschleiden, Sete-Fontaine, etc.) were distinguished by the abundance of sculpture in the interiors (tabernacles, statues of madonnas and saints, tombstones). In the second half of the 16th century. The Renaissance style spread (the town hall, now the Ducal Museum, in Luxembourg, 1563), and in the 17th century. - Baroque (Notre Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg, 1613-1621). Fortified residences of the nobility were erected (Vitrange, Anzembourg castles, etc.). In the 18th century Decorative and applied arts flourished (production of furniture, metal products, earthenware). In 19th century architecture. Eclecticism replaced classicism.

Fine art of the 19th century. developed under French influence (portraits of J. B. Frese, romantic landscapes of M. Kirsch). After the First World War, the influence of German expressionism appeared, then French Fauvism. The paintings of J. Kutter are marked by sharp grotesque features and a rich palette. In the works of contemporary artists (W. Kesseler, J. Probst, M. Hofmann, etc.) the influence of A. Matisse, P. Picasso, F. Léger and other French masters is noticeable. The compositions of the sculptor L. Vercollier, with the tendencies of abstract art, retain a certain closeness to nature.

Attractions

Wiltz is the largest city in Essling, and, like the capital, consists of two parts - the Lower Town (at an altitude of 320 m) and the Upper Town, located 80 m higher on the mountainside around the ancient fortress. Wiltz is a beautiful town, its surroundings are very picturesque. Some chaotic development, coupled with ravines overgrown with bushes and numerous fences give the city a special provincial flavor.

Vianden is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities of Luxembourg, stretching along the banks of the narrow valley of the Ur River, at the foot of the ancient fortress of the Dukes of Nassau. Vianden Castle (11th-13th centuries), the oldest buildings of which date back to the 9th century, is a pearl of medieval architecture. The Gothic Church of the Holy Trinity, part of the castle complex, is one of the most famous in the country. Vianden is famous for the fact that Victor Hugo lived there. The house where he lived was restored in 1948 and now there is a museum in it, which houses some things and books that belonged to the great French writer.

The city of Echternach, located on the banks of the Sura on the border with Germany, near “Luxembourg Switzerland”, is one of the oldest cities in the country, it is about 1000 years old. There are many ancient buildings with fancy vaults and arches. A wonderful view of the city opens from the opposite, mountainous and forested left bank of the Sur. The massive buildings of the former monastery, which now houses the classical lyceum, stand out against the backdrop of Echternach. Echternach, along with the capital, is a recognized center of tourism; it is a city of numerous processions and holidays.

The main attraction of this ancient city is the so-called. "dancing procession" On the first Tuesday after Trinity, thousands of people, holding hands, skip and move: three steps forward, two to the side. Legend has it that in time immemorial, one horse thief sentenced to death was allowed to play his favorite melody one last time: when everyone heard it, they started dancing and forgot about the execution! The folklore motif was then mixed with the religious: supposedly in the 14th century. the dancing procession turned into a prayer procession of pilgrims asking God to save people from hunger and plague.

The feudal castle, towering above the city, is the main attraction of Clairvaux, located in a picturesque lowland between wooded hills. Inside the castle there are also several museum collections, including an exhibition of Luxembourg fortresses in miniature. In 1910, the Benedictine Abbey of Clairvaux was founded. The Benedictine monastery was built in the neo-Romanesque style by the Dutch architect Klomp. An exhibition dedicated to the history of monastic life is open here.

The Moselle Valley is located 40 km north of Schengen Castle, famous for the signing of the international agreement of the same name there. Selected grape varieties are grown in this valley, from which the world-famous Riesling, Mosel, and Rivaner wines are produced. The castle of Stadtbredimus in the Mosel Valley is famous for the fact that the poet de La Fontaine lived here for some time. The best blends of Mosel wines are stored in the castle cellars, and tourists are offered tastings. Remich is a recognized winemaking center in the southern part of the Mosel Valley.

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Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
luxemb. Groussherzogtum Lëtzebuerg fr. Grand-Duché de Luxembourg German Großherzogtum Luxemburg
Motto: « Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn » "We want to remain who we are"
Hymn: "Ons Heemecht (Our Fatherland)"
Location Luxembourg(dark green): - in (light green and dark gray) - in the European Union (light green)
Independence date	9 June 1815 (from France)
Official language	Luxembourgish, French, German
Capital
The largest city
Form of government	a constitutional monarchy
Grand Duke	Henri (Henry)
Prime Minister	Xavier Bettel
Territory	167th in the world
Total	2586.4 km²
% water surface	minor
Population
Score (2018)	602,005 people (164th)
Density	233 people/km²
GDP
Total (2013)	$78.307 billion (98th)
Per capita	$150,554
HDI (2017)	▲ 0.904 (very high; 21st place)
Currency	euro (EUR, code 978)
Internet domain	.lu
ISO code	L.U.
IOC code	LUX
Telephone code	+352
Time Zones	CET, UTC+1, UTC+02:00 And Europe/Luxembourg

Luxembourg(Luxemb. Lëtzebuerg), officially Grand Duchy of Luxembourg(Luxemb. Groussherzogtum Lëtzebuerg, French Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, German Großherzogtum Luxemburg) - state (grand duchy) in. It borders on the north, on the west and south on, on the east, and has no access to the sea. The name comes from the Old High German “lucilinburch” - “small city”. Luxembourg's total area is 2,586.4 km², making it one of the smallest sovereign states in Europe. The population as of January 1, 2018 is 602,005 people.

Member of the European Union since 1957, it is also a member of NATO, the OECD and the UN. Together with Belgium it is part of the Benelux.

Story

Ancient history

The oldest traces of human habitation in Luxembourg date back to the Upper Paleolithic and date back to about 35,000 BC. The oldest artifacts from this period are decorated bones discovered at Étrange.

Permanent settlements with houses appeared in the Neolithic era, in 5 thousand BC. e. Traces of such settlements were found in the south of Luxembourg, in the city of Aspelt, as well as in the communes of Veyler-la-Tour, and. The frame of the dwellings consisted of tree trunks, the walls were made of clay-covered wicker, and the roofs were covered with reeds or thatch. Neolithic pottery discovered near Remerschen.

At the beginning of the Bronze Age, the population of Luxembourg was small, but by the period of the XIII-VIII centuries. BC e. Numerous finds include remains of dwellings, ceramics, weapons, jewelry discovered in places such as Nospelt, Mompach and Remerschen.

In the VI-I centuries BC. e. The territory of Luxembourg was inhabited by Gauls, then it was included in Rome.

In the 5th century, the Franks invaded Luxembourg.

Medieval history

At the end of the 7th century, the population of the territory of modern Luxembourg was converted to Christianity thanks to the Monk Willibrord, who founded a Benedictine monastery there. During the Middle Ages, the land became part of the Frankish kingdom of Austrasia, then the Holy Roman Empire, and later Lorraine. In 963 it gained independence through an exchange of strategic territories. The fact is that on its territory there was a fortified castle - Lisilinburg (Small Fortress), which laid the foundation for the state. At the head of this tiny possession was Siegfried. His descendants expanded their territories slightly through wars, political marriages, inheritances and treaties. In 1060, Conrad was proclaimed first Count of Luxembourg. His great-great-granddaughter became the famous ruler Ermesinda, and her great-great-grandson Henry VII, in turn, was Holy Roman Emperor from 1308. In 1354, the County of Luxembourg became a duchy. But in 1443, Elisabeth von Görlitz, niece of the Holy Roman Emperor Sigismund, was forced to cede this domain to Philip III, Duke.

In 1477, Luxembourg passed to the Habsburg dynasty, and during the division of the empire of Charles V, the territory came into power. When the Netherlands rebelled against Philip II, King of Spain, Luxembourg remained neutral. As a result of this rebellion, the duchy came into the possession of the rebel side. The beginning of the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) passed quite calmly for Luxembourg, but with the entry of France into it in 1635, real trouble and ruin came to the duchy. In addition, the Peace of Westphalia (1648) did not bring peace to Luxembourg - this happened only in 1659 as a result of the conclusion of the Treaty of the Pyrenees. In 1679-1684, Louis XIV systematically captured Luxembourg, but already in 1697 he transferred it to Spain.

History of the 18th-19th centuries

Map of Luxembourg sections

During the War of the Spanish Succession, Luxembourg returned to the Austrian Habsburgs. Six years after the start of the French Revolution, Luxembourg again passed to France, so that the state experienced all the vicissitudes of fate along with the French - the Directory and Napoleon. The former territory was divided into three departments, in which the Constitution of the Directory and the corresponding system of government were in force. The peasants of Luxembourg were subject to anti-church measures by the French government, and the introduction of conscription in 1798 led to an uprising in Luxembourg, which was brutally suppressed.

With the fall of Napoleon, French rule in Luxembourg ended, its fate was decided by the Congress of Vienna in 1815: Luxembourg was granted the status of a Grand Duchy with Willem I (representative of the Orange-Nassau dynasty, King of the Netherlands) at its head. Luxembourg retained its autonomy, and the connection with the Netherlands was rather nominal - only because the duchy was considered the personal possession of Willem. The territory was also part of the German Confederation, and a Prussian garrison was stationed on its territory. Willem's rule was quite harsh, since he perceived the population of the territory as personal property and imposed huge taxes on them. Naturally, Luxembourg supported the Belgian revolt against Willem in 1830, and in October of that year it was declared that Luxembourg was part of Belgium, although Willem did not renounce his rights to the territory. In 1831, Prussia decided that Luxembourg should remain with Willem I and enter the German Confederation. At the same time, the French-speaking western part of the duchy was transferred to Belgium. In 1839, part of the territory of the state became part of (the modern province of Luxembourg).

In 1842, Willem II signed a treaty with Prussia, under which Luxembourg became a party Customs Union. This step significantly improved the economic and agricultural development of the duchy, infrastructure was restored, and railways appeared. In 1841, Luxembourg was granted a constitution, which, however, did not correspond to the wishes of the population. The French Revolution of 1848 greatly influenced autonomy, since under its influence Willem granted a more liberal constitution, which was amended in 1856. With the collapse of the confederation in 1866, Luxembourg became completely sovereign state. Officially this happened on September 9, 1867. A little earlier, on April 29, 1867, on international conference An agreement on the status of Luxembourg was signed between Russia, Great Britain, France, Prussia and a number of other states. Under the treaty, the crown of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was recognized as the hereditary possession of the House of Nassau, and the duchy itself was determined to be an “eternally neutral” state.

History of the 20th century

With the death of Willem III in 1890, the Netherlands was left without a male heir, so the Grand Duchy passed to Adolf, former Duke Nassau, and then to his son Willem, who died in 1912. During the years of their reign, they had little interest in issues of government, but Maria Adelaide, Willem’s daughter, developed vigorous activity there, which was not appreciated by the population.

During the First World War, Luxembourg remained neutral, although in 1914 Germany occupied it, and Maria Adelaide did not particularly protest. At the very beginning of 1919, power in Luxembourg passed to the republican Committee of Public Safety, but was returned to the monarchy with the help of the French garrison. However, due to these events and the Treaty of Versailles, Marie Adelaide was forced to give the throne to her sister Charlotte, who was enthroned on January 9, 1919 (on the throne until 1964). According to the results of the plebiscite on September 28, 1919, the majority of the population “wanted to see Charlotte on the throne.”

In 1940, Germany occupied Luxembourg for the second time. True, now the government refused to compromise with the occupiers, so the entire court was forced to emigrate and live in exile. “Traditional” Nazi orders were established in the duchy, the French language was infringed. The duchy became part of the Third Reich in December 1941. 12 thousand people received summons to mobilize into the Wehrmacht, of which 3 thousand evaded conscription, and approximately the same number died on the Eastern Front.

In September 1944 liberation came. In the same year, Luxembourg entered into an economic union with Belgium and the Netherlands (Benelux). With its entry into NATO in 1949, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg violated its centuries-old military neutrality. In 1964, Prince Jean ascended to the throne of Luxembourg. In October 2000, Jean abdicated the throne, citing old age; his son Henri ascended the throne.

Political structure

Luxembourg Parliament

The head of state is the Grand Duke. According to the constitution, he alone exercises executive power; determines the order of organization of the government and its composition, approves and promulgates laws, appoints to civil and military positions, commands armed forces, concludes international treaties, etc. Virtually all executive power belongs to the government ( Regierung), appointed by the Grand Duke as part of the Prime Minister (lux. Premier minister, German Premierminister, fr. Premier minister) and ministers. The highest legislative body is the Chamber of Deputies ( Chamber vun den Deputéierten), elected by the population for a 5-year term through general direct elections using a system of proportional representation. The right to vote is granted to all citizens over 18 years of age, and voting in legislative elections is compulsory.

Administration in the districts is carried out by commissioners, in the cantons - by burgomasters. The bodies of self-government in communes are elected councils.

The body of constitutional supervision is the Constitutional Court (lux. Verfassungshaff, fr. Court constitutionnelle), the highest court is the Supreme Court (lux. Ieweschte Geriichtshaff, fr. Cours supérieure de justice, German Obersten Gerichtshof), consists of the Court of Cassation (lux. Cassatiounshaff, fr. cour de cassation, German Kassationshof) and the Court of Appeal (lux. Appellatiounshaff, fr. cour d'appel, German Berufungsgerichtshof), courts of first instance - 2 district courts (lux. Bezierksgeriicht, fr. tribunal d'arrondissement, German Bezirksgerichte), the lowest level of the judicial system - 3 magistrates' courts (lux. Friddensgeriicht, fr. justices de paix, German Friedensgerichte), the highest court of administrative justice is the administrative court (lux. Verwaltungshaff, fr. Court administrative, German Verwaltungsgerichtshof), courts of first instance of administrative justice - administrative tribunal (lux. Verwaltungstribunal, fr. tribunal administration, German Verwaltungsgericht), the highest court of social justice - the Supreme Council (lux. Ieweschte Rot), courts of first instance of social justice (lux. Arbittesch Rot), the highest court of military justice is the Supreme Military Court (lux. Heije Militärhaff), courts of appeal of military justice - courts of appeal (lux. Appellatiounshaff), the lowest level of military justice is the military councils (lux. Krichsrot).

The legal advisory body and the highest administrative court is the Council of State, appointed by the Grand Duke. The main law enforcement agency is the Police of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Political parties

Center-right

• Alternative Democratic Reform Party - Conservative
• Christian Social People's Party - Christian Democratic

Centrists

• Democratic Party - Liberal

Center-left

• Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party - socialist
• Green Party - environmentalist

Left

• Association "Left" - left socialist / communist / Trotskyist (Revolutionary Socialist Party)
• Communist Party of Luxembourg

Geographic data and points of interest

Various questions

• Transport Luxembourg
• Armed Forces of Luxembourg
• Orthodoxy in Luxembourg
• Council of State of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
• Languages ​​of Luxembourg

Notes

1. World Atlas: Maximum detailed information/ Project leaders: A. N. Bushnev, A. P. Pritvorov. - Moscow: AST, 2017. - P. 16. - 96 p. - ISBN 978-5-17-10261-4.
2. http://www.rtl.lu/letzebuerg/1167086.html
3. International currency board (2013)
4. Human Development Indices and Indicators (English). United Nations Development Program (2018). - Report on human development on the UN Development Program website. Retrieved September 14, 2018.
5. Eurostat – Tables, Graphs and Maps Interface (TGM)6 table. Epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu. Retrieved February 21, 2010.
6. Paleolithic period from National Museum of History and Art, Luxembourg (inaccessible link - story) . Retrieved November 30, 2007. Archived August 27, 2005.
7. Neolithic houses from National Museum of History and Art, Luxembourg (inaccessible link - story)
8. Neolithic pottery from National Museum of History and Art, Luxembourg (inaccessible link - story) . Retrieved November 30, 2007. Archived March 20, 2007.
9. Population of Luxembourg.
10. Territories of Luxembourg.
11. "Liechtenstein leaves offshores" Published on the Rossiyskaya Gazeta website www.rg.ru on August 11, 2009: "In March the Organization economic cooperation and Development has prepared a “black list” of “offshore zone” countries. These included Luxembourg, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Belgium."
12. CIA Directory. List of countries by external debt (English)
13. Luxembourg (Russian) became the richest state in Europe. KM.RU News - news of the day, Russian news, latest news and comments. Retrieved March 13, 2018.
14. Art Competition 1924 (English) (inaccessible link - story)
15. Art Competition 1928 (English) (inaccessible link - story) . // olympic-museum.de. Retrieved August 5, 2012. Archived August 16, 2012.

Literature

• Luxembourg, grand duchy// Encyclopedic Dictionary of Brockhaus and Efron: in 86 volumes (82 volumes and 4 additional). - St. Petersburg. , 1890-1907.

Links

• Luxembourg in the Open Directory Project (dmoz) link directory
• Luxembourg government website (French)
• Welcome to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
• Luxembourg map (English)
• Russian Embassy in Luxembourg (Russian)
• Embassy of Luxembourg in Russia (Russian)