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Notre-Dame Cathedral
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The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City is the nation's primary religious landmark and a site of deep historical significance. Originally constructed between 1613 and 1621 as a Jesuit church, it features a unique blend of late Gothic architecture and Renaissance ornamentation. It was elevated to the status of a cathedral in 1870 and underwent a major expansion in the 1930s, which added the three iconic spires that now define the city's skyline. The cathedral is home to the statue of 'Consoler of the Afflicted,' the patron saint of both the city and the country, celebrated during the annual Octave pilgrimage. Its crypt contains the royal mausoleum for the Grand Ducal family and the tomb of John the Blind, the legendary King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg. With its impressive choir, modern stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings, the cathedral stands as a serene monument to Luxembourg's faith and national heritage.
- Location: Luxembourg
- Top sights: Notre-Dame Cathedral · Trinité · Hôtel de Ville
- 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
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City is open to visitors as a place of worship and can be visited inside. It is the burial place of the Grand Ducal family and impresses with its Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Typical hours
The cathedral is usually open daily from about 8:00 to 18:00, with breaks for services. During services, visiting is restricted; exact times are posted at the entrance.
Photography
Photography without flash is usually allowed inside the cathedral. During Mass, photography should be avoided to not disturb devotion.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a visit to the cathedral. The crypt and side chapels contain many art-historically valuable details.
Combine with
The cathedral is in the heart of the old town - combine your visit with the Grand Ducal Palace and Place Guillaume II. The upper town's fortifications are also within walking distance.
Getting there
The cathedral is centrally located in the pedestrian zone and best reached on foot. Bus stops such as 'Hamilius' and 'Stäreplaz' are a few minutes' walk away.
Insider tip
Visit the cathedral early in the morning to enjoy the quiet before the crowds. The crypt with the tombs of the Grand Ducal family is a peaceful place for reflection.
Geography
Facts
- The church was originally built by the Jesuit order in the early 17th century.
- The cathedral's main portal features elaborate sculptural decorations.
- The expansion between 1935 and 1938 nearly doubled the church's seating capacity.
- The remains of John the Blind have been interred in the crypt since 1946.
- The cathedral houses three organs, including a massive symphonic pipe organ.
- The Octave pilgrimage has been a central religious event in Luxembourg since 1666.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Notre-Dame Cathedral (10)
Pétrusse Casemates
The Pétrusse Casemates are a fortification in Luxembourg City.
Lëtzebuerg City Museum🏛 museum
The Lëtzebuerg City Museum is a museum in Luxembourg City.
Gëlle Fra
The Gëlle Fra is a historic site in Luxembourg City.
LOOK 360 panorama
LOOK 360 panorama has a panoramic view of Luxembourg City.
Grand Ducal Palace
The Grand Ducal Palace is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg.
Ratskeller🏛 museum
The Ratskeller is a museum in Luxembourg City, showcasing the city's history.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the Notre-Dame Cathedral built?
It was built between 1613 and 1621, originally as a Jesuit church.
What is special about its architecture?
It combines late Gothic elements with Renaissance decorations.
Is there a crypt in the cathedral?
Yes, the crypt contains the tombs of the Grand Ducal family.
Does it cost anything to enter the cathedral?
Entry is usually free, but donations are welcome.
What is the 'Octave' of Luxembourg?
An annual religious pilgrimage to the cathedral starting two weeks after Easter.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: where is it located?
Notre-Dame Cathedral is located in Luxembourg.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Notre-Dame Cathedral, Trinité, Hôtel de Ville.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City is the nation's primary religious landmark and a site of deep historical significance.
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National Museum of History and Art
Central museum in the old town presenting archaeological finds and artworks from Luxembourg's history.
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National Monument of Solidarity
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