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Three Towers
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The Three Towers, rising majestically above the Alzette valley, are an iconic remnant of Luxembourg's second city wall. The central, square tower, known as the 'Porte de l'Hôpital', dates from the mid-13th century and served as the main gate. The two round outer towers were added in the 14th century to strengthen the fortifications. These massive structures were more than just a gate; they also served as a prison at times and were a crucial point in the fortress's defense system. Today, together with the Holy Ghost Citadel and the casemates, they form an impressive ensemble that testifies to the city's rich military history. A walk along these ancient walls has not only a journey into the past but also wide-open views of the Grund district and the surrounding landscape, making them an essential part of any visit to Luxembourg.
- Location: Luxembourg
- Top sights: Trois Tours · Pulverdepot Fort Obergrünwald · Sang & Klang
- 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
These impressive medieval towers can be closely admired from the outside as you walk through the historic fortifications, though interior access is generally not possible.
Typical hours
Being an integral and prominent part of the open-air city defenses and public walkways, you can marvel at these massive historical structures at any time of the day or night.
Photography
The distinct contrast between the square central tower and the round side turrets provides a truly fantastic subject for dramatic architectural photography from various angles.
Time needed
You will likely spend about fifteen to twenty minutes examining the weathered stonework and taking memorable photos before continuing your exploration of the ancient fortress walls.
Combine with
This iconic site seamlessly connects with a longer, historical walk along the Bock Casemates or a scenic descent into the Pfaffenthal district using the modern glass elevator.
Getting there
The historic towers are conveniently located along the main tourist walking routes of the upper city, making them very straightforward to reach on foot during any guided city tour.
Insider tip
Walk directly through the ancient gateway itself to fully appreciate the sheer thickness of the old defensive walls and to vividly imagine the historical significance of this entrance.
Geography
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Three Towers (10)
National Museum of History and Art🏛 museum
Museum of art and history in Luxembourg City.
Wachhaus
Ruins of a former guardhouse of the fortress.
Schlassbréck
Bridge over the Alzette river, connecting upper and lower town.
Théâtre du Centaure
Small theatre in the old town, staging plays.
Église de Saint-Michel
Church in Luxembourg, dedicated to the Archangel Michael.
Pafendaller Viaduc
Railway bridge in Luxembourg City, part of the rail line.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are the 'Three Towers' part of the old city fortifications?
Yes, they are a prominent remnant of the second defensive wall from the 13th century.
Can you go inside the towers?
Interior visits are normally not possible, but you can walk through the passage at street level.
Why do the towers have different designs?
The central tower is square (13th c.), while the two outer towers are round (14th c.).
Where exactly are the Three Towers located?
They are located at the transition from the Fish Market district to Pfaffenthal.
Is the path to the towers steep?
The path is level from the Upper City, but it becomes steep as you head down into Pfaffenthal.
Three Towers: where is it located?
Three Towers is located in Luxembourg.
Three Towers: what is there to see?
Highlights include Trois Tours, Pulverdepot Fort Obergrünwald, Sang & Klang.
Three Towers: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Three Towers: why is it worth visiting?
The Three Towers, rising majestically above the Alzette valley, are an iconic remnant of Luxembourg's second city wall.
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History & landmarks
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The neoclassical administrative building on Place Guillaume II is the hub of the capital's local government.
Bock Casemates
The Bock Casemates are a vast underground defense system in Luxembourg City, expanded by the Spanish starting in 1745.
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A historic circular walk connecting the most important fortifications of Luxembourg City.
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Neumünster Abbey in the Grund district has a varied history as a Benedictine monastery, military hospital, and prison.
More places
St. Michael's Church
The oldest religious building in Luxembourg City, located right by the historic Fish Market.
Spanish Towers
Small, distinctive observation turrets on the fortress walls, built during the Spanish rule.
National Museum of History and Art
Central museum in the old town presenting archaeological finds and artworks from Luxembourg's history.
Luxembourg City History Museum
An interactive museum in the old town documenting the thousand-year history of the capital city of Luxembourg.
Grand Ducal Palace
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