Overview of Luxembourg

Profile

Though a small country surrounded by France, Belgium, and Germany, Luxembourg has spearheaded European integration as a founding member of EU, NATO, and Benelux. International city functions centered on finance, satellite communications, and EU institutions coexist with rich nature represented by Ardennes forests and Moselle River valley vineyards. About half the population is foreign nationals, forming an extremely international society where three official languages are used daily.

Official name: Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Common name: Luxembourg
Numeric code: 442
Alpha-3 code: LUX
Alpha-2 code: LU
Population: 660,000 (2023)
Population density: About 255 people/km2
Primary languages: Luxembourgish, French, German
Major religions: Roman Catholicism
National anthem: Ons Heemecht (Our Homeland)
Calling code: +352
Internet TLD: .lu

History

Originated from 10th-century fortress construction, fully independent in 1839.

In 963, Count Siegfried of Ardennes built a "small castle" that became the country's namesake. Flourished as a Holy Roman Empire stronghold in medieval times but experienced repeated partitions from 17th-19th centuries. Independence confirmed as grand duchy by 1839 London Treaty. Became perpetual neutral state after 1867 fortress demolition but suffered German occupation in both World Wars. Post-war, abandoned neutrality, joined NATO, and played central role in European integration to present.

Geography & climate

Northern Ardennes hills and forests, southern fertile Gutland plateau, eastern border meandering Moselle River spreading vineyards.

West coast oceanic climate

Area: Europe / 2586 km²
Capital: Luxembourg City
Largest city: Luxembourg City
Coastal status: No
Bordering countries: France, Belgium, Germany

Natural resources

Iron ore (formerly major resource), Limestone, Clay, Forest resources, Fertile farmland, Groundwater, Gravel, Silica sand, Wind power potential, Biomass

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy (parliamentary cabinet system grand duchy)

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 86.7 billion dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 91 billion dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Luxembourgish, French, German

Time zone: Central European Time (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Luxembourgers, Portuguese, French, Germans, Italians, Belgians, Other EU, Non-EU immigrants

Life expectancy

82.2 years

Literacy rate

Over 99%

National sports

Football, Cycling road racing, Basketball, Handball, Rugby, Tennis