The written history of Lucilinburhuc (i.e. Luxembourg) starts in the year 963, when Siegfried, Count of the Ardennes, and founder of the Luxembourg Dynasty, had a castle built on the territory of the present-day capital of Luxembourg. This castle was the origin of the establishment of a town, which later was to develop into a formidable fortress, known by the name of 'Gibraltar of the North'. At its height, the fortress was girdled by three ring-walls studded with 24 forts, and linked underground by a 23 kilometre network of Casemates. In 1994, Luxembourg City was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Nestling behind the barrier of the towering Ardennes mountains Luxembourg is protected from the cold North Sea winds and therefore has a temperate climate. Warm weather from May to September and snow likely during winter months is typical for Luxembourg. The north (the Ardennes region) tends to be wetter and colder than the south. Luxembourg's weather is generally temperate. Snow is possible in winter.
Luxembourg’s economy is notable for its close connections with the rest of Europe. Luxembourg’s prosperity was originally based on the iron and steel industry, which in the 1960s represented as much as 80 percent of the total value of exports. By the late 20th century, however, the nation’s economic vigour stemmed chiefly from its involvement in international banking and financial services and in such non-commercial activities as hosting intra-European political activities. The result of this adaptability and cosmopolitanism is a very high standard of living. Luxembourg had become an international financial centre and a home to more than 160 banks by the late 20th century. The agricultural resources of Luxembourg are quite modest. With the exception of livestock products, surpluses are scarce, and marginal soils in many parts of the country hinder abundant harvests. Most farming is mixed and includes both animal raising and gardening. Livestock and their by-products account for the bulk of agricultural production, with cattle raising having gained in importance at the expense of pig and sheep raising. Wheat, barley, and other cereal grains are the next most important products, followed by root vegetables.
There is virtually no adult illiteracy. School attendance is compulsory between the ages of 6 and 15. Pupils attend primary schools for six years and then enter secondary schools for a period of up to seven years. Post-secondary institutions in Luxembourg include the Central University of Luxembourg (founded in 1969), Superior Institute of Technology, and teacher training schools. However, most advanced students attend institutions of higher learning in Belgium and France.
The City of Luxembourg is served by an efficient network of buses run by the "Autobus municipaux de la Ville de Luxembourg". There is no underground or tramway service. Dogs may also be taken -free of charge- on City buses. "Nightrider" nightbus can be ordered to take you wherever you want to be taken in Luxembourg City, almost like a taxi, except that you may be sharing the journey with others.
Having at one time or another been ruled by the Burgundians, the Spanish, the French, the Austrians and the Prussians, Luxembourg can boast a brilliant melange of architectural styles. Nowadays tradition is further blended with the finest that contemporary architects can devise.
New Bridge was erected between 1900 and 1903 during the rule of Grand Duke Adolphe. The big double arch spans more than 85 metres across the Petrusse valley at a height of 42 metres, and a total length of 153 metres.
The Grand-Ducal Palace, in the historic centre of the city of Luxembourg, is the official residence of the Grand Duke. Although the grand-ducal family actually live at Berg Castle, the Grand-Ducal Palace is the seat of the Court and is where the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess spend their working day. It is also the venue for state ceremonies and official receptions.
The National Museum for History and Art was recently substantially refurbished and contains some major archaeological finds from the Gallo-Roman period, which are displayed in underground galleries. Collections of fine arts, medieval artefacts, coins, medals and arms are also on display.
There is almost always something going on in Luxembourg City. During Lent there are several festive street carnivals, winding up with a more serious celebration, Oktave of Our Lady of Luxembourg, a pilgrimage to honor the patron saint that lasts from the third to the fifth Sunday after Easter. Another celebration is the "Spring" or Dancing Procession of Echternach, held on Tuesday after Whitsun in honour of St. Willibrord.
June 23 is National Day, when spectators get to watch the Grand Duke review his troops. The day before, on June 22, People party starts on evening in the streets, following by a local folklore train and then gather to watch the fireworks display at night over the Petrusse Valley. Late August brings Schueberfouer, a large travelling fair, to the huge Glacis Square. Founded in 1340 by John the Blind, Count of Luxembourg and King of Bohemia, it continues the tradition of the folk fair.
