A hidden treasure in the heart of Europe. We will explore its wonders, from its official languages and rich culture to curious facts and customs.
Western Europe is home to a host of popular tourist destinations, but among them lies a little treasure that is often overlooked: Luxembourg. A small but charming country, Luxembourg offers a unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty that makes it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable travel experience.
Where is it located?
Luxembourg, officially the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is a small country located in the heart of Western Europe. It borders Belgium to the north and west, Germany to the east and France to the south. Despite its small size, Luxembourg is a country rich in history, culture and natural beauty.
What languages are spoken?
Luxembourg has three official languages: French, German and Luxembourgish. French is the most used language in administration and business, while German is predominant in the border areas with Germany. Luxembourgish, a Germanic language closely related to German, is the mother tongue of the majority of the population.
How many languages are spoken?
In addition to the three official languages, other languages are spoken in Luxembourg, such as Portuguese, Italian and English, due to the large immigrant population.
Where else is Luxembourgish spoken?
Luxembourgish, in addition to being one of the three official languages of Luxembourg, is also spoken in small areas of neighboring countries:
Belgium: Mainly in the Ardennes region, bordering Luxembourg.
France: In some areas of the northeast, near the border with Luxembourg.
Germany: In the west of the country, in the Eifel region, which borders Luxembourg.
It should be noted that the number of Luxembourgish speakers outside of Luxembourg is relatively small, with estimates hovering around 30,000. However, the language has a strong presence in Luxembourgish communities living abroad, especially in the United States and Transylvania (Romania).
It is important to mention that Luxembourgish is a language in constant evolution, and its use varies depending on the region and the age of the speaker. In Luxembourg, Luxembourgish is mainly used in everyday and family life, while French and German dominate in administrative, educational and commercial settings.
Despite its relatively small size and number of speakers, Luxembourgish is an important part of Luxembourg's cultural identity and a distinctive element that enriches Europe's linguistic diversity.
Examples of basic expressions in Luxembourgish:
Moien: Hello.
Merci: Thank you.
S'il vous plaît: Please
Au revoir: Goodbye
Comment allez-vous?: How are you?
Je m'appelle...: My name is...
Fun facts about Luxembourg:
The smallest country in the European Union: Luxembourg has an area of only 2,586 km², making it the smallest country in the EU.
A paradise for cyclists: Luxembourg has an extensive network of cycle paths crisscrossing the country, making it an ideal destination for cycling lovers.
Luxembourg City: The country's capital, also called Luxembourg, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The country with the highest GDP per capita in the world: Luxembourg has an extremely high GDP per capita, making it one of the richest countries in the world.
A multicultural country: Luxembourg has a very diverse population, with more than a third of its inhabitants born abroad.
Places to visit:
Luxembourg City: The capital of the country, it is home to numerous historical monuments, such as the Grand Ducal Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Vianden Castle: An imposing medieval castle perched on a hill offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
Moselle Valley: A picturesque valley known for its vineyards, charming villages and hiking trails.
Ardennes Natural Park: A protected natural area with lush forests, crystal-clear rivers and impressive cliffs.
National Museum of Modern Art: A museum that houses a collection of modern and contemporary art by artists from Luxembourg and the rest of the world.
Gastronomy:
Luxembourg gastronomy is a mix of German, French and Belgian influences.
Some of the typical dishes include Judd mat Gaardebounen (pork with green beans), Riesling (white wine) and Gromperekichelcher (fries).
Luxembourg is known for its chocolates and pastries.
Typical desserts include Fiousebak (cheesecake) and Weiderkircher Káischt (cherry cake).
Travel tips:
Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you travel during peak season.
Buy a Luxembourg Card, which gives you free access to many of the country's museums and attractions, as well as discounts on transport and restaurants.
Sample local cuisine, including dishes such as Judd mat Gaardebounen (pork with green beans) and Riesling (white wine).
Relax and enjoy the slow pace of life in Luxembourg.
The best time to visit Luxembourg is during spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
Luxembourg is a small country, so it is easy to get around by car or bus. There is also a train network that connects the main cities.
English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
The official currency of Luxembourg is the euro.
Luxembourg is a small but fascinating country that offers a lot to visitors. Its rich history, vibrant culture and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and authentic travel experience.
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