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European Court of Justice
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Landmark
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), based on the Kirchberg plateau in Luxembourg, is the highest court of the EU. Its main task is to ensure the uniform interpretation and application of EU law in all member states. Established in 1952, the Court has played a decisive role in shaping the European legal order. The CJEU's building complex is an architectural landmark. The original buildings have been supplemented over the years by several spectacular extensions. Particularly striking are the two golden towers, completed in 2008 to designs by French architect Dominique Perrault. They are over 100 metres high and symbolise the importance and authority of the court. A further extension with a third tower was completed in 2019. The CJEU is not only a place of justice, but also a symbol of European integration and the rule of law, which significantly shapes the Luxembourg skyline.
- Location: Luxembourg
- Top sights: Cabine de Traduction · Grand Auditorium · Salle de Musique de Chambre
- Nearby: Walferdange (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 67 | 57 | 57 | 46 | 70 | 68 | 65 | 72 | 56 | 65 | 68 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The European Court of Justice on the Kirchberg plateau can be visited - however, the interiors are only accessible as part of guided tours. The architecture of the building is also impressive from the outside.
Typical hours
Guided tours are usually offered on weekdays with prior registration, often several times a day. Exact times can be found on the institution's official website.
Photography
Photography is allowed at any time outside; inside, it is usually permitted without flash during the tour. The modern glass architecture and the large courtroom are especially photogenic subjects.
Time needed
A guided tour of the European Court of Justice lasts about one hour. Allow an additional 15 to 20 minutes for security check and access.
Combine with
The Kirchberg also hosts other EU institutions such as the European Commission and the European Parliament, which can also be visited. The Philharmonie and Mudam Museum are nearby.
Getting there
The Kirchberg is excellently connected by tram line 1 from Luxembourg city center. The stop 'Européen B' is right in front of the Court building.
Insider tip
Register for a guided tour at least two weeks in advance, as places are limited. Bring a valid ID - without it, entry is not possible.
Geography
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town European Court of Justice (10)
MUDAM🏛 museum
Museum of modern art, designed by Ieoh Ming Pei.
Europa Experience Luxembourg🏛 museum
Interactive museum on the history and work of the European Union.
Fort Thüngen
Fort within the larger Luxembourg Fortress, houses the Musée Dräi Eechelen.
Tour Malakoff🗼 tower
Tower of the Luxembourg fortress, part of the former defence system.
Musée Dräi Eechelen🏛 museum
Museum in the Kirchberg district, showcasing the fortress history.
Fort Parkhöhe
Former fort, now a park with viewpoints.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the European Court of Justice?
Yes, groups can book guided tours, and it is often possible to attend public hearings.
Where is the Court located?
It is located on the Kirchberg plateau, the modern European district of Luxembourg City.
Who designed the distinctive towers?
The golden towers were designed by the French architect Dominique Perrault.
Do you need ID for entry?
Yes, a valid ID or passport is required for all visitors for security reasons.
Are there artworks to see there?
Yes, the building houses a significant collection of contemporary European art.
European Court of Justice: where is it located?
European Court of Justice is located in Luxembourg.
European Court of Justice: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cabine de Traduction, Grand Auditorium, Salle de Musique de Chambre.
European Court of Justice: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
European Court of Justice: why is it worth visiting?
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), based on the Kirchberg plateau in Luxembourg, is the highest court of the EU.
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History & landmarks
Luxembourg City Hall
The neoclassical administrative building on Place Guillaume II is the hub of the capital's local government.
Robert Schuman Building
A historic EU administrative building on Kirchberg, named after one of the founding fathers of Europe.
Fort Thüngen
Fort Thüngen, also known as 'Three Acorns' due to its distinctive roof finials, was built in 1732.
Bock Casemates
The Bock Casemates are a vast underground defense system in Luxembourg City, expanded by the Spanish starting in 1745.
More places
EIB Headquarters
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is headquartered in Luxembourg.
Philharmonie Luxembourg
A modern concert hall on the Kirchberg plateau, famous for its architecture featuring 827 white steel columns.
Mudam Luxembourg
The museum of modern art was built upon the walls of the historic Fort Thüngen on the Kirchberg plateau.
Three Towers
A historic city gate of the former Luxembourg fortress, consisting of one square and two round towers.
Grand Théâtre de la Ville de Luxembourg
The country's premier theater venue, known for high-caliber international opera, dance, and theater performances.
Spanish Towers
Small, distinctive observation turrets on the fortress walls, built during the Spanish rule.
Malakoff Tower
A historic defensive tower of the Luxembourg fortress that controlled the access to Pfaffenthal.
St. Michael's Church
The oldest religious building in Luxembourg City, located right by the historic Fish Market.