Urspelt Castle

Though the Urspelt Castle has a history going back at least three centuries, today's building dates from 1860. The origins of the castle go back more than 300 years when it was a small country property. Then in 1860, Amand Bouvier considerably expanded it. A new garden was laid out, now one of the area's most notable parks with its avenues and elm trees. When Bouvier died in 1900, he left a magnificent estate to his nephew Alfred Bouvier but he and his descendents failed to show much interest in the property. During the Second World War, the Germans used the castle as their headquarters for northern Luxembourg until they were forced to abandon it to the Americans during the Battle of the Bulge in the winter of 1944. After the war, the castle fell into disrepair and was used only as a hunting lodge. Towards the end of the 20th century, the deserted building was increasingly invaded by the surrounding undergrowth.

After comprehensive restoration work and additions in 2005, it recently opened as a hotel and meeting centre. An old well, apparently dating back to an 11th-century stronghold, was found and renovated in a restoration. A second tower was added at the far end of the castle to house a lift.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Am Schlass 60, Urspelt, Luxembourg

Details

Founded: 1860
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Luxembourg