Citadel+of+the+Holy+Spirit

Declan Vick Citadel of the Holy Spirit The Citadel of the Holy Spirit, also known as La Citadelle du Saint-Esprit, is an old citadel on a spot in Luxembourg City with an interesting history. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the area around the Citadel has served many purposes.

The area that Luxembourg City is on came into importance during Roman times. It was the junction of eight Roman roads, and was very important to them. They therefore built a watchtower and other fortifications in the area. In that same area over time arose other constructions like a monastery and the Citadel of the Holy Spirit. It was built in the 1600s by King Louis XIV of France, and was part of the fortresses of Luxembourg City. It had great fortification being built straight into the rocks. The citadel is on one of the oldest sites in the city, and its rising stone facade is a stark contrast to the more modern buildings around it. The Citadel and surrounding area has changed in appearance over time. The way it looks today is due to French architect Vauban. He built lots of extra fortifications like walls, some well over 100 feet tall, that protect the area. Another important piece to the landscape is a balcony walk of sorts that goes from the Citadel to another spot which is basically a cave where cannons were put so they could fire on the enemy while staying protected. The walk is known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, and is unmissable. The Citadel still is an important site for Luxembourg tourism, and although not all of it still remains it is an impressive sight to behold.