Museums & culture
Bock Casemates
12 min read
Cannon embrasure inside the Bock Casemates rock tunnels above the Alzette valley
The Bock Casemates are the visible core of what UNESCO calls one of the most remarkable fortress sites in Europe. Begun by the Spanish in 1644 and extended by the French engineer Vauban and then the Austrians, the tunnels honeycomb the sandstone promontory where Count Siegfried built his castle in 963. At their peak the underground galleries could shelter thousands of soldiers, horses, kitchens and workshops, with cannon embrasures aimed straight down the Alzette valley.
Entry is on Montée de Clausen next to the ruins of the Dent Creuse tower. The visit is self-guided along a fixed one-way route of about 700 metres, with steep stairs, low ceilings and cool 10 °C temperatures even in August. Bring a light jacket and skip it if you have serious claustrophobia. Signage is in French, German and English, and the exit puts you back near Place Clairefontaine.
Hours
Daily 10:00-20:30 (Apr-Sep)
Daily 10:00-17:30 (Oct)
Closed Nov-Mar
Frequently asked questions
How much is admission?
Standard adult tickets are $8, students and seniors $6, children 4-12 $4, under-4s free. Family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children is $18.
Are there free entry times?
There are no regular free hours, but entry is included in the $15 LuxembourgCard and the annual Journées du Patrimoine in September.
How long is the visit?
Most visitors spend 60 to 90 minutes inside. The one-way loop is about 700 m with several detours to viewpoints.
When are the casemates closed?
The Bock Casemates close entirely from 1 November to 31 March for weather and safety reasons. They also close on 24 and 25 December.
Do I need to book online?
Not required, but summer queues at the Montée de Clausen ticket booth can hit 30 minutes. Timed tickets are available at visitluxembourg.com.
What is the closest stop?
Bus stop Musée Nat. d’Histoire et d’Art on Rue Wiltheim, a 3-minute walk down Rue Sigefroi to the entrance.
Where to stay
Rooms worth pairing with this guide.
Ready to plan this trip?
Real prices for the places this piece names.
