Sometimes cities tell their stories not only through facts and figures, but also through legends. In Luxembourg, one such story lives on to this day. A story of love, trust and a promise that would change everything. Between cliffs, valleys and ancient streets, this love story still seems to echo around. The legend tells of an encounter stronger than reason, of a connection between two beings from different worlds, of a moment when trust was betrayed.

Count Siegfried is considered the founder of Luxembourg. In 963, he exchanged land and acquired the Bock promontory above the Alzette valley. On this promontory, he built his castle and it was in this context that the name ‘Lucilinburhuc’ (little castle) was first mentioned. Siegfried's historical role marks the starting point for the legend of Melusina.

The legend has countless versions, including the following. In the Alzette Valley, Siegfried followed the sounds of a wonderful chant and encountered a mysterious woman: Melusina. She was to become his wife, but their connection came with one promise: on Saturdays, she wanted to be alone and Siegfried was never allowed to see her. When he broke this vow, he discovered Melusina's secret: his great love was half human, half mermaid. She then disappeared into the waters of the Alzette and became part of Luxembourg's legends.

Ever since, Melusina has appeared every seven years in human form above the Bock promontory to call on those passings to redeem her. Without success, the ‘matriarch of the city’ disappears back into the depths of the rock.

Since then, Melusina appears every seven years, in human form, above the Bock promontory, to call passersby to redeem her. Without success, the white figure disappears back into the depths of the rock, uttering the cry: "Not for seven years!"

The legend lives on in iconic places: the Alzette Valley, the Bock promontory and the fortifications that connected Siegfried and Melusina. Today, interested visitors can explore these places on a guided tour and immerse themselves in history.

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