Esch-sur-Alzette (Esch-Uelzecht)

Introduction to the commune

Located in southern Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette is the second most populated city in the country (after Luxembourg City). It has more than 34,000 inhabitants. Located about twenty kilometers from Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette is the capital of the Redlands ("Minett" in Luxembourgish), rich in iron ore. The city is very cosmopolitan and more than 30% of the population is made up of foreigners.

Innovation

Esch-sur-Alzette was the economic capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg during the iron and steel era. In order to successfully deal with the end of industrial activities, over the past two decades Esch-sur-Alzette has been transformed into a hotbed for learning, research and knowledge society.  Creativity, innovation and knowledge are key words for this new research center which offers a favorable environment for private investment and employment. 

Tourism in Esch-sur-Alzette

The city of Esch-sur-Alzette is also a hub for trade, tourism and culture for the entire southern region of Luxembourg. It has been experiencing large-scale development for a few years. With some 1,200 companies and more than 400 shops covering various sectors, it has become a real commercial hub for the region of southern Luxembourg, attracting not only visitors from around the country, but from neighboring regions as well. Those who enjoy shopping will love making their purchases on the 800-meter rue de l'Alzette pedestrian street, one of the longest in the country.  Due to its location, the pedestrian area also has many cafes, pubs and restaurants.

Additionally, what is left of the steel saga at the Belval site is represented by the two still visible blast furnaces, the link between the past and the future. The story can be rediscovered through a visit to blast furnace A, accessible as far as the top charging system platform at 40 m, 180 steps to the finale, a breathtaking view of the new neighborhood of Belval and its surroundings.  

Beyond its industrial side, Esch-sur-Alzette also has green parks and lanes. Gaalgebierg Park is the perfect example; made up of beautiful gardens, a vast forest, a wildlife park and a natural ice rink, the park is a peaceful haven that brings happiness to young and old whatever the season. A fishing zone is also available at the old ERA reservoir that makes up the France-Luxembourg border between Audun-le-Tiche and Esch-sur-Alzette.  

History

The city is home to the National Resistance Museum which recounts the history of Luxembourg from 1940 to 1945 during Nazi oppression through the reactions and demonstrations of the people (resistance movements, forced recruitment, etc.). The Cockerill mine, which is open to the public, is worth a visit because it played an important role in the country’s economic development.  It is the only mine that had a shaft, while adits were typically used.

Culture in Esch-sur-Alzette 

The city is resolutely focused on culture with the Municipal Theater, the Kulturfabrik and the well-known Rockhal complex which hosts today’s biggest stars.  Sports in Esch-sur-Alzette  There are many options in terms of sports; plenty of activities are organized for all ages (LASEP (Primary School Sports League), Youth Sports-Cool Sports for children, women-only activities, Fit 60+ for the elderly, as well as options for the disabled).  

Ecology

The city is part of the Climate Pact program, which is inspired by the European Energy Award. It is a system for quality management and certification within the energy policy and climate protection sectors which assesses and rewards communal involvement.