Luxembourg

In 60^th and 70th when the world was divided by the Wall the only source of information about America and Western Europe life behind the Wall was radio. Young people at that time in the Eastern side of the Wall were cut off from the world of music and desperately tried to get some information and listen the latest music hits through the noise interference and static.
Among the numerous of radio stations “Radio Luxembourg” was the most innocuous in terms of criticism of the closed socialist paradise. The musical program was punctuated with the innocuous news, which is sometimes provided the domestic issues. Once in the late 60th it rose the topic of only unemployed person, suddenly appeared in the country, which led to much discussion and concerns about the state of his employment. That was one of a kind amazing problem discussed at “Radio Luxembourg.”
But the greatest thing was on Friday nights the two-hour special program with wonderful music.
Since then, much time has passed, and the desire to look at this tiny country where so tenderly cared for one survived unemployed.
What is appeared before the eyes of a tourist, who happen to live at the both sides of the Wall for long time enough, to observe the Luxembourg life?
From the country, where the main source of income was the production of unique steel, Luxembourg became one of the capitals of the European Union. Three capitals perform their specific functions: Brussels – is the Parliament, Strasbourg – is the European Court of Justice, and Luxembourg – is the Finances. However, the parliamentary sessions held periodically, not only in Brussels but also in the other two capitals. The new part of the State/City of Luxembourg presents all the existing major global banks. Driving in this part of town you will definitely admire the modern architecture, urban sculpture, public gardens and thoughtfully and well-organized modern urban life.
Old Town holds a rich history since Roman Empire times and is represented by the remains of the fortress and the catacombs, built by the Romans. Beautiful squares and streets have retained their original appearance.
The daily life of Luxembourg goes slowly and methodically. There is no typical urban hustle of the big city. Even the shops and cafes here have their lunch break. Many of them are closed at 5-6 pm. However, this calm appearance does not imply a lack of business life. On our way from Luxembourg early in the morning, we saw a huge stream of oncoming traffic, delivering the residents of neighbouring France to the countless offices of banks, businesses and other organizations. From the country of single unemployed person Luxembourg became a huge employer for a neighbouring state.
Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French and German. French language for the foreign visitors sounds like prevailing, but in the places for leisure activities German and Luxembourgish languages can be heard as well. Once in a restaurant from the nearest table we heard a strange language, which sounded to our ears like spoiled French. The waiter explained to us that this is Luxembourgish language and it has been almost forgotten under the influence of the more powerful neighbouring languages. But twenty years ago, the government adopted the native language recovery program, and during this short period of time the population speaking in their mother tongue increased by 40%.
Luxembourg as a tiny state is rich in cultural treasures, museums, theatre and musical traditions. And “Radio Luxembourg” is still broadcasting here!

October 23, 2015 | Categories: Europe, Luxembourg | Tags: Europe, European Unoin Capital, Journey, Luxembourg, Radio Luxembourg, Tourism | 14 Comments