NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL OF LUXEMBOURG

The foundation stone of Notre-Dame Cathedral was laid in 1613. First under the orders of the Jesuit Fathers, it was officially recognized as a cathedral in 1870. From 1935 to 1937, the building was considerably enlarged. Inside, you can admire the statue of the Virgin Mary, consoler of the afflicted, patron saint of Luxembourg City (since 1666) and of the Grand Duchy (since 1678). During the annual pilgrimage of the Octavian, the statue is displayed on a wrought iron altarpiece from 1766. Another protector of the place, Saint Joseph, has a remarkable golden mosaic dedicated to him. Saint Joseph is represented there carrying the baby Jesus. Also note the presence of various coats of arms on the right side of the choir (for example, those of Chimay, Saint-Hubert, Echternach, Vianden... all localities that have had a regional influence), but also magnificent mural paintings on a narrow ogival vault, as well as very beautiful stained glass windows. The cathedral is a very fine example of late Gothic, but it also has Renaissance elements and ornamentation. The various columns with Italian neo-Romanesque motifs and the baroque portal framing the organ are worth a look! You can also visit the crypt where John I of Bohemia (John the Blind), the deceased members of the Grand Ducal family (including Grand Duchess Charlotte) and the bishops of Luxembourg are buried.