Betzdorf Castle
Palace in Betzdorf, Luxembourg
French: Château BetzdorfGerman: Schloss BetzdorfLuxembourgish: Schlass Betzder
- Type
- Palace
- Location
- Betzdorf
- Built
- 1912
- Entry
- Free or not listed
- Visit time
- 0.5 h
- Access
- Exterior or private
About Betzdorf Castle
The castle is the headquarters of SES, the world's largest satellite operator in terms of revenue and the largest component of Luxembourg Stock Exchange's main LuxX Index. Since its acquisition by SES, the company has built a large commercial and industrial centre on the castle estate.
History
Betzdorf Castle served as the residence of Hereditary Grand Duke Jean following his marriage to Joséphine-Charlotte of Belgium on April 9, 1953. The couple lived there until November 16, 1964, when Jean ascended to the throne after Grand Duchess Charlotte’s abdication. All of their children were born at the castle: • Princess Marie-Astrid (February 17, 1954) • Grand Duke Henri (April 16, 1955) • Prince Jean and Princess Margaretha (twins, May 15, 1957) • Prince Guillaume (May 1, 1963)
After Jean’s family moved out, the castle was repurposed as a nursing home, a role it maintained until 1982. That July, it briefly served as a campsite for 3,000 Scouts celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Scouting movement.
Following a period of vacancy, SES acquired the castle in 1986 and undertook significant renovations to establish it as the company’s headquarters. The location was chosen for its seclusion, ensuring minimal interference for their satellite ground station, the Betzdorf Satellite Control Facility, which became operational in July 1987—initially without a satellite.
Visiting & Practical Information
Opening hours
| Monday | 09:00-17:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 09:00-17:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:00-17:00 |
| Thursday | 09:00-17:00 |
| Friday | 09:00-17:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00-16:00 |
| Sunday | 10:00-16:00 |
Open months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Good to know
- Entry: Free or not listed
- Typical visit: 0.5 h
- Accessibility: The castle grounds and first floor are fully accessible. There are also accessible toilets and parking spots.
- Note: Private property.
- Address: Société Européenne des Satellites, Rue Pierre Werner, 6815 Betzdorf, Luxembourg
- Official site: www.ses.com
Betzdorf Castle in Photos
See Betzdorf Castle on a Private Tour
Recommended route: Photo stop or context stop. Exterior stop and route context. Walking: Access varies by site.
