Casemates du Bock: Luxembourg's Fortress Tunnels

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Explore Luxembourg's underground fortress: a UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of military history and stunning city views.

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Casemates du Bock

The Casemates du Bock are a network of underground tunnels in Luxembourg City, dating back to 1644. Originally built by the Spanish, the tunnels were expanded over the centuries and served as a crucial part of the city's defenses, earning Luxembourg the nickname 'Gibraltar of the North'. Today, the casemates are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's military past and stunning views of the surrounding area.

A brief summary to Casemates du Bock

10 Montee de Clausen, Luxembourg, Grund, 1343, LU
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Monday 10:45 am-3 pm
Tuesday 10:45 am-3 pm
Wednesday 10:45 am-3 pm
Thursday 10:45 am-3 pm
Friday 10:45 am-3 pm
Saturday 10:45 am-3 pm
Sunday 10:45 am-3 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the tunnels have uneven surfaces and stairs.
Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the casemates can be cooler than outside.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the casemates fully.
Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
Purchase tickets online or at the Luxembourg City Tourist Office to avoid potential queues.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Place d'Armes, walk east along Rue de la Reine, then turn right onto Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes. Continue onto Rue de la Boucherie, which leads directly to Montée de Clausen. The entrance to the Casemates du Bock is located at the top of the Montée de Clausen. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Note that the hills leading to the entrance can be steep. There are parking lots at the bottom of the hill.
Public Transport

From Luxembourg City's central train station, take bus line 18 towards Centre, F.D. Roosevelt. Get off at the Centre, F.D. Roosevelt stop, which is a short walk from the Casemates du Bock. Alternatively, take bus number 9, 14, or 20 to the Um Bock/Casemates stop. From either stop, follow the signs to Montée de Clausen and the casemates entrance. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.

Discover more about Casemates du Bock

The Casemates du Bock are an extensive network of underground tunnels located in Luxembourg City. Carved into the Bock promontory, the casemates offer a fascinating journey through the city's military history. Construction of the casemates began in 1644, during the Spanish rule, and were expanded by the Austrians and Prussians. These tunnels, stretching over 23 kilometers, served as a defense system, providing shelter for soldiers and storage for weapons. The casemates were strategically important, allowing defenders to move discreetly and launch counterattacks. The location could house around 50 cannons and 1,200 soldiers. During World War I and World War II, the casemates were used as air raid shelters, protecting up to 35,000 people from bombings. Today, visitors can explore a portion of these tunnels, witnessing the narrow passageways, storage rooms, and gun emplacements. The tunnels provide unique views of the city and the Alzette River valley. The archaeological crypt displays remains of the first castle. The Bock Casemates, along with the city's old town, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.