Luxembourg is part of northern Europe. It is a harmonious blend of French, Flemish and German cultures.

Area: 2586 square kilometers, surrounded by France, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, it is a rolling country that is reminiscent of the French Ardennes

Climate
The Grand Duchy enjoys a temperate cli­mate without extremes. It profits from the beneficial and moderating influence of the sea, but the sea winds (SW and NW) shed a great part of their moisture before reaching the Luxembourg frontiers. The period from May to mid-October is particularly suitable for vacations. While July and August are the warmest months. May and June are the sunniest months. September and October often offer an "Indian Summer". For the celebrations by the end of the year the weather gets dry, cold and snowy.

Status
Grand Duchy Government: parliamentary system; pluralist democracy made up of a Grand Duke, a prime minister and a house of representatives that includes 60 members elected for 5 year terms by universal direct suffrage

Important Dates

• January 3, 1815 - creation of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, granted to the king of the Netherlands
• May 12, 1867 - Treaty of London, which confirms the country's independence
• 1964 - dredging of the Moselle and creation of a fluvial port at Mertert

Capital: Luxembourg

Currency: Luxembourg is one of the European states to join the Single Currency

Languages spoken
Luxemburgish, German, French

Principal industries
: banking, tourism, steel-related industry

Agriculture
animal raising