Luxembourg, a small country nestled in the heart of Europe, is often recognized for its economic prosperity and rich history. However, beyond its picturesque landscapes and modern cities, it is also home to fascinating abandoned places, perfect for fans of urban exploration, or urbex . Discover the five must-see urbex sites in Luxembourg, where the past mixes with mystery.
1. The Belval Thermal Power Station
Located in Belval, this former thermal power station is a symbol of Luxembourg's industrial past. Closed for decades, it stands out for its vast metal structures and imposing chimneys, offering an impressive setting for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Metal structures, chimneys, large industrial halls.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate to advanced, with some buildings partially collapsed.
- Access: Relatively difficult, some areas being protected.
2. The Abandoned Ansembourg Castle
Ansembourg Castle , although not completely abandoned, has abandoned parts, offering an ideal setting for urbex. This baroque castle, surrounded by magnificent gardens, is a place full of history, with mysterious corners to explore.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Abandoned parts of the castle, fallow gardens, outbuildings.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with areas overgrown with vegetation.
- Access: Possible, but with caution so as not to damage the site.
3. The Abandoned Wiltz Hospital
The abandoned hospital of Wiltz is one of the most intriguing sites in Luxembourg for urbex. Closed for several decades, this hospital is frozen in time, with its deserted treatment rooms and long dark corridors.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Treatment rooms, patient rooms, medical equipment left on site.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with structural risks.
- Access: Difficult, some areas are dangerous.
4. The Esch-sur-Alzette Foundry
The Esch-sur-Alzette foundry is another must-see site for urbex in Luxembourg. Abandoned since the end of the 20th century, this foundry is a vestige of Luxembourg's metallurgical industry, with its blast furnaces and vast warehouses.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Blast furnaces, warehouses, rusty industrial equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some parts well preserved.
- Access: Difficult, requiring great caution.
5. The Old Iron Mine of Dudelange
The Dudelange iron ore mine is a fascinating underground site for urban explorers. Although partially filled in, this former mine offers a unique setting with its galleries and mining equipment left behind.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Underground galleries, mining equipment, surface annex buildings.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with some galleries partially collapsed.
- Access: Very difficult, with significant risks due to the instability of the site.
Conclusion
Luxembourg, despite being a small country, offers a diversity of urbex sites that bear witness to its rich industrial and historical past. Each place, whether it is a disused factory, an abandoned castle or an old mine, offers a unique experience for urban explorers. However, it is important to always respect these places, ensure your safety, and leave no trace of your passage.
