Related Sponsors

Introduction to Luxembourg/Ten Things You Should Know about Luxembourg

Home » Luxembourg » Luxembourg: Overview and History » Introduction to Luxembourg/Ten Things You Should Know about Luxembourg

Luxembourg, which Let’s Go Travel Guides describes as “the forgotten ‘lux’ of the Benelux countries,” is little known outside of Europe but is very popular with those travelers who don’t forget it. It is one of the smallest countries in the world, yet it offers both fascinating history and an exciting present. To begin with, however, get acquainted with Luxembourg by reviewing the below, which are ten of the most unique facts regarding this small country.

1. It’s rich: Luxembourg has the highest GDP per capita in the world. The CIA factbook makes Luxembourg sound like the economy from heaven: “solid growth, low inflation, and low unemployment…increasingly diversified.”

2. It’s not Lichtenstein: The other small L country in Europe, Lichtenstein, lies to the southeast, squeezed in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria. In addition, Lichtenstein contains fewer than two hundred square miles in size; Luxembourg is nearly ten times that size.

3. “We want to remain what we are”: It’s the national motto and gives you an idea of the country’s pride in its historicity and solidarity.

4. Visit a White Castle: Luxembourg has many notable castles, several of which date back to the Middle Ages. The Bock Casemarts and Beaufort Castle in Echternach are perhaps the most impressive, but castles, fortresses, and chateaus are throughout the country.

5. The Grand Duchy: Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world; the country’s monarch is Grand Duke (not King) Henri.

6. When in doubt, answer Luxembourg: The capital of the country is Luxembourg City and the official language is Luxembourgish. And the citizens? They’re Luxembourgers.

7. Eighty-three: It’s Luxembourg’s impressive life expectancy for women (actually 82.4). However, it’s also the approximate number of thousands of residents in its largest city (Luxembourg City), and the sum of the country’s width and length in miles.

8. They’re giving peace a chance: The Luxembourg army (there is no navy or air force) is entirely volunteer and less than one percent of the GDP is defense-related. That said, Luxembourg is a member of NATO and has supported NATO efforts in Afghanistan.

9. Get out!: Among other things, Luxembourg is known for its hiking, camping, and biking opportunities.

10. How to Contact Them: Call 202-265-4171. That’s the phone number for the Luxembourg embassy in Washington, DC. Joseph Weyland is the current ambassador to the US. Also, check out the Luxembourg National Tourist Office web site at http://www.ont.lu

Next Page: Luxembourg Geography

Related Luxembourg: Overview and History Articles