Vauban Circular Walk

Overview

The Vauban Circular Walk is a 3.5 km route threading through the Pfaffenthal and past the Rham Plateau, focusing on the 17th-century fortifications designed by the great French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban.

Highlights

• Rham Plateau: Panoramic viewpoint over the Alzette Valley with the remains of a military hospital.
• Vauban Towers: Three circular watchtowers that once anchored the outer defence ring.
• Quiet Lanes: Cobblestone paths through the residential lower town.

History

Vauban fortified Luxembourg for Louis XIV in the 1680s, building on earlier Spanish works. The circular walk highlights his contributions and the later Austrian modifications.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Best done in the morning when the low sun illuminates the sandstone walls.
• Tip 2: Wear comfortable shoes - cobblestones can be slippery after rain.
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours.