Clausen, Malakoff

A fortified castle becomes a cultural centre: the Dräi Eechelen Museum is located inside the renovated Fort Thüngen, first built in 1732-33, and is right next to the Mudam, Museum of Modern Art. The museum’s historic home is itself an important element in the permanent exhibition there entitled “Fortress, History, Identity”. With its impressive underground tunnels and mines, the building still largely remains as it was when it was last extended in 1836/37. On a guided tour, visitors can discover over 600 objects and original documents on permanent display behind the fortified walls. On the first floor, the museum regularly presents special contemporary exhibitions. Discover the Dräi Eechelen Museum through immersive and interactive 3D tours.

The Wenzel circular route takes you through the 1000-year history of the city of Luxembourg. During the route, you will discover the oldest districts of the capital as well as preserved fortifications, which were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. Among other things, this route takes you to the Bock Rock (the cradle of the city of Luxembourg), the castle bridge built in 1735, and the Corniche panorama path, known as "the most beautiful balcony in Europe." The route was named in memory of Wenzel II, Duke of Luxembourg between 1383 and 1419. During his reign, part of the third ring wall, the so-called Wenzel Wall, was built to protect the residents of the valley. It is possible to book this route as a guided tour with a guide.

The circuit bears the name of the famous French military engineer, active during the reign of Louis XIV, Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban (1633-1707). Appointed commissioner for fortifications at the age of just twenty-two, Vauban built or enlarged more than 160 fortresses in total. When he arrived in Luxembourg with the French enemy troops, the Spanish held sovereignty over the fortified city, which from the Middle Ages onward had been ruled by a number of foreign powers in turn. Following the traces of Vauban (General Commissioner for Fortifications), you will discover sites that bear witness to Luxembourg’s military past, experience the medieval charm of the old Lower Town of Pfaffenthal and, from the fortified heights, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Developed into a federal fortified city during the Prussian era, Luxembourg was deemed impregnable right up until its demolition.