Luxembourg (Disambiguation) facts for kids
Luxembourg is a small, beautiful country in Western Europe. It is officially known as the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. This means it is led by a Grand Duke or Grand Duchess. Luxembourg is famous for its rich history and stunning castles. It is also one of the smallest countries in Europe.
Contents
What is Luxembourg?
Luxembourg is a landlocked country. This means it has no coastline. It shares borders with Belgium, France, and Germany. Despite its small size, Luxembourg plays a big role in Europe. It is a founding member of the European Union.
Where is Luxembourg Located?
Luxembourg is in the heart of Western Europe. Its landscape includes rolling hills and deep valleys. The northern part of the country is called the Oesling. It is part of the Ardennes mountain range. The southern part is called the Gutland. This area has more farms and forests. The Moselle River forms part of its southeastern border.
People and Language
The people of Luxembourg are called Luxembourgers. They have a unique culture. It blends influences from French and German traditions. The main language spoken is Luxembourgish. This is a West Germanic language. However, French and German are also official languages. Many people in Luxembourg speak all three languages. English is also widely understood.
How is Luxembourg Governed?
Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy. It is also a parliamentary democracy. This means the Grand Duke is the head of state. The Prime Minister is the head of government. The country has a parliament. Its members are elected by the people. This system helps ensure that the government serves its citizens.
What About Its History?
The history of Luxembourg dates back to 963 AD. That is when Count Siegfried built a castle. This castle became the core of Luxembourg City. Over centuries, Luxembourg was ruled by many different powers. These included the Burgundian Netherlands, Spain, and France. It gained its full independence in 1867. This long history has shaped its unique identity.
What is the Capital City?
The capital city is Luxembourg (city). It is a very important city. It is one of the three official capitals of the European Union. The city is built on dramatic cliffs. It has old fortresses and modern buildings. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It shows off the city's rich past.
What is the Economy Like?
Luxembourg has one of the highest GDP per person in the world. This means its people are very wealthy. The economy is strong and diverse. It is well known for its financial services. Banking and investment are major industries. Luxembourg is also a hub for international businesses.
Other Meanings of Luxembourg
The word "Luxembourg" can refer to a few other things:
- Luxembourg Franc: This was the currency Luxembourg used to use. It was replaced by the Euro in 2002.
- Luxembourg (province): This is a province in Belgium. It is located next to the country of Luxembourg.