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Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance)
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The Gëlle Fra, officially known as the Monument of Remembrance, is one of Luxembourg's most cherished national symbols, located in Constitution Square. Unveiled in 1923, the monument features a gilded female figure atop a tall granite obelisk, holding a laurel wreath over the nation. It was originally built to honor the Luxembourgish volunteers who served in the French Armed Forces during World War Ib. During the Nazi occupation in 1940, the monument was dismantled by the German forces, sparking significant public protests and strengthening the local resistance movement. The golden lady was thought to be lost for decades until she was rediscovered in 1980 hidden under the stands of the national stadium. Following its re-inauguration in 1985, the monument now serves as a memorial for those who died in both World Wars and the Korean War, standing as a testament to Luxembourg's independence and resilience.
- Location: Luxembourg
- Top sights: Gëlle Fra · LOOK 360 panorama · Pétrusse Casemates
- Nearby: Strassen (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 Gëlle Fra is a freely accessible monument on Place de la Constitution in Luxembourg City. It stands outdoors and can be visited at any time without restrictions. The square is lively but allows for quiet contemplation.
Typical hours
Since the monument is on a public square, it has no fixed opening hours. Daytime visits are best to appreciate the details of the gilded female figure. In the evening, it is nicely illuminated.
Photography
Photography is allowed and encouraged at any time. Capture the statue from different angles - looking up makes it appear especially imposing. Avoid harsh backlight in the late afternoon for better results.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. Take time to appreciate the surrounding buildings and the view of the Adolphe Bridge. The square also invites a short stroll.
Combine with
Gëlle Fra is centrally located and can be perfectly combined with the Grand Ducal Palace and Notre-Dame Cathedral. A walk through the old town is recommended, as many sights are within walking distance.
Getting there
Place de la Constitution is a 15-minute walk from Luxembourg City train station. Bus stops are right at the square, and parking garages are nearby. The square is wheelchair accessible.
Insider tip
Visit the monument in the late afternoon when the light beautifully highlights the gilded figure. From the balustrade, you get a fantastic view of the Petrusse Valley.
Geography
Facts
- The monument was designed by the Luxembourgish sculptor Claus Cito.
- The granite obelisk stands at a total height of 21 meters.
- The dismantling of the monument by Nazis occurred on October 21, 1940.
- The gilded statue was discovered in 1980 beneath the stands of the Josy Barthel Stadium.
- In 2010, the statue was sent to Shanghai to be displayed at the World Expo for six months.
- Two bronze sculptures of soldiers are positioned at the base of the obelisk.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance) (10)
Ravelin Pâté
Viewpoint on a former fortification work.
Priedegtstull
Viewpoint with a view over the valley.
Hôtel de Ville
City hall of Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Roman Catholic cathedral of Luxembourg.
Casino Luxembourg
Exhibition space for contemporary art.
Casino Luxembourg - Forum d'art contemporain🏛 museum
Contemporary art museum in Luxembourg.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Gëlle Fra monument symbolize?
It is a memorial to the Luxembourgish volunteers of the World Wars and the Korean War.
Who designed the golden statue?
The gilded bronze statue was created by Luxembourgish sculptor Claus Cito in 1923.
Where exactly is the monument located?
It stands on Place de la Constitution in the center of Luxembourg City.
Can the monument be visited for free?
Yes, the monument is located in a public square and is freely accessible at all times.
Does the location offer a good view?
Yes, Place de la Constitution provides an excellent view of the Pétrusse Valley.
Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance): where is it located?
Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance) is located in Luxembourg.
Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance): what is there to see?
Highlights include Gëlle Fra, LOOK 360 panorama, Pétrusse Casemates.
Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gëlle Fra (Monument of Remembrance): why is it worth visiting?
The Gëlle Fra, officially known as the Monument of Remembrance, is one of Luxembourg's most cherished national symbols, located in Constitution Square.
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This iconic stone arch bridge connects Luxembourg's city center with the railway station district over the Pétrusse valley.
Grand Ducal Palace
The Grand Ducal Palace in the old town serves as the official residence of the Grand Ducal family.