Wiltz Castle
Wiltz
Wiltz Castle, located in the town of Wiltz in northern Luxembourg, is a Renaissance-style castle dating back to the 16th century. The castle stands on a rocky promontory and features the oldest part known as the Witches' Tower, which dates back to the 13th century. Originally built by the Lords of Wiltz, the castle has experienced attacks and restorations, including destruction by French forces in 1388 and damage during the 15th century. Construction of the present Renaissance castle began in 1631 under Count John VI and was completed around 1720, with the chapel and monumental staircase finished shortly after. Today, Wiltz Castle is renowned for hosting an annual international music festival that spans classical, jazz, and rock genres, attracting world-class artists since 1953. The castle also hosts the National Museum of Brewing, showcasing 6,000 years of beer history, and the Tanning Museum, reflecting the town’s historic leather industry. Part of the castle complex serves as a campus for various business institutes, blending cultural heritage with modern education.
Plan your trip to Luxembourg with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Wiltz Castle is from late June to mid-July during the international music festival, which offers a rich variety of performances under a removable roof protecting against bad weather. Visitors interested in the brewing or tanning history should check the National Museum of Brewing and the Tanning Museum opening hours, especially outside July and August when the brewing museum is open daily. It is advisable to book tickets or check event schedules in advance due to the festival's popularity. The castle’s location in northern Luxembourg is accessible by car or public transport, and guided tours provide deeper insight into its history and cultural significance.
Interesting facts
- •The Witches' Tower is the oldest part of Wiltz Castle, dating back to the 13th century.
- •Wiltz Castle has hosted an international music festival since 1953, featuring classical, jazz, and rock music.
- •A removable roof was installed in 1991 to protect festival attendees from bad weather.
- •The National Museum of Brewing located in the castle's stables traces 6,000 years of beer production history.
- •Wiltz was historically a center for leather tanning, with 28 tanneries in 1887, two of which operated until the mid-20th century.
History
The origins of Wiltz Castle date back to the 13th century when the Lords of Wiltz built a fortified castle on a rocky promontory.
The castle was destroyed by French forces in 1388 and later damaged in 1453 by troops of Philip of Burgundy but was repaired each time.
Under Count John VI of Wiltz, construction of the current Renaissance-style castle began in 1631 but was delayed by the Thirty Years War, with completion around 1720.
The chapel was finished in 1722 and the monumental garden staircase in 1727.
In 1951, the State of Luxembourg acquired the castle for use as an old people's home, marking a new chapter in its history.
Place Guide
Witches' Tower13th century
The oldest surviving part of Wiltz Castle, this round tower dates back to the 13th century and reflects the medieval origins of the site.
Main Renaissance Castle Building1631-1727
Constructed mainly between 1631 and 1720 under Count John VI of Wiltz, this building showcases Renaissance architectural style and includes the old chapel and monumental staircase leading to the gardens.
Castle Gardens and Monumental Staircase1727
The gardens are accessed via a grand staircase completed in 1727, offering scenic views and a historic ambiance for visitors.
National Museum of Brewing1999
Housed in the castle's former stables since 1999, this museum explores the history of beer brewing over 6,000 years, with a focus on Luxembourg’s brewing heritage.
Tanning MuseumEstablished 1644
This small museum presents the history of Wiltz’s leather tanning industry, which flourished since 1644 and included dozens of tanneries in the late 19th century.
Contact
Phone: 95 99 39 250
