Fischbach Castle

Fischbach Castle has the longest history of any Luxembourg castle. Originally owned by the wealthy Abbey of Echternach, it passed to a secular lord in 1050. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous changes, including complete destruction in 1635 during the Thirty Years’ War.

In the 19th century, industrialist Auguste Garnier transformed Fischbach into an industrial hub with blast furnaces. Grand Duke William II acquired the estate in 1847 to strengthen his political control and ordered the removal of the furnaces. In 1884, Duke Adolphe of Nassau, later Grand Duke of Luxembourg, purchased the castle.

During World War II, the Nazis used Fischbach as a rest home for German artists but still looted its art. Unlike other palaces, it remained intact, allowing Grand Duchess Charlotte to reside there after her return from exile. She grew fond of Fischbach and lived there throughout her reign and even after abdicating in 1964, staying until her death in 1985.

After Charlotte’s passing, Prince Henri and Princess Maria Teresa moved in until Henri became Grand Duke in 2000. Grand Duke Jean then lived there until his death in 2019. Later that year, Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume and Hereditary Grand Duchess Stéphanie made Fischbach Castle their home.