Truly a remarkable artifact from medieval times, this series of 23 kms (approx. 14 miles) of tunnels underneath the city provided the former inhabitants a way to protect their homes and way of life. They were originally built in 1644 in the era of the Spanish occupation, and then further enlarged by the French engineer Vauban only 40 years later. In fact, there are also over 40,000 square meters of bomb proof rooms where people could go and hide from attackers. At its peak, the network of tunnels accommodated thousands of defenders by housing its occupants along with numerous horses, artillery workshops, slaughterhouses, kitchens, bakeries, and equipment. With all of these fortifications, Luxembourg city was dubbed the “Gibraltar of the North,” truly an impregnable fortress. Unfortunately the fortress was dismantled in 1867, however there are still 17km (approx. 10.5 miles) available for tours. There are 2 sets of Casemates, the Petrusse and Bock. However, the Petrusse is only open on school holidays, so it’s much more reliable to visit the Bock Casemates. In the Bock Casemates it is also possible to see the archaeological crypt of the original foundations of the piece of the castle built in 963AD. This is the part of the castle known as the Bock Promonotory, and is where the visit to the casemate begins.
Awesome Panoramic Virtual Tour
Awesome Panoramic Virtual Tour
Bock Casemates:Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 - 17
CLOSED: November, December, January, & February Cost: €3 Time Needed: 1 hour |
Petrusse CasematesOnly open: Select Weeks in April and June
|