Tours Vauban, Gate towers in Pfaffenthal, Luxembourg.
Towers Vauban consist of two identical defense structures on opposite banks of the Alzette River, joined by a fortified wall forming a single defense unit. Together they create a substantial barrier controlling the river passage and valley below.
These defense structures were built in 1685 following an assessment by a French military engineer who identified gaps in the city's fortifications. They were constructed to establish permanent control over the river crossing in this valley.
The towers formed part of a defensive system that shaped how the city protected its river crossing and controlled movement through the valley. They stand as visible reminders of how military needs influenced the layout and character of this neighborhood.
Access is available during standard daytime hours, and one structure houses a screening room for documentaries about the neighborhood's past. Plan time to explore both sides of the river and walk along the connecting wall that links them together.
The lower levels contain doorways opening onto a rampart walkway within the fortified wall, creating a passage way directly across the river bed. This reveals how the defense system doubled as a means of transportation across the valley.
Part of: Fortress of Luxembourg
GPS coordinates: 49.61682,6.13245
Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:12
European Investment Bank
435 m
Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge
158 mGrand Théâtre de Luxembourg
350 m
Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator
197 m
Fort Thüngen
467 m
Pfaffenthal–Kirchberg funicular
250 m
Three Towers Gate
482 mLe Passe-muraille
303 m
Bons-Malades Gate
0 m
Beinchen bridge
31 m
Robert-Schuman Monument
245 m
Badanstalt
435 m
Eich Gate
116 m
Cinémathèque de la Ville de Luxembourg
423 m
Centre de documentation sur la forteresse de Luxembourg
274 m
Arbre du Prince Jean
284 m
Joseph-Kutter-Stèle
364 m
Viaduc Dräi Eechelen
217 m
Käschtebam um Square Robert-Brasseur zu Lëtzebuerg
430 m
Chapelle Saint-Pierre Martyr
439 m
Fontaine côte d'Eich
264 m
Grünewald Gate
288 m
Arbre du prince Charles de Luxembourg
268 m
Embassy of the Czech Republic in Luxembourg
461 m
Scenic viewpoint
363 m
Scenic viewpoint
451 m
Olizy-Kasematten
368 m
Fort Obergrünewald
406 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes