Canton
Vianden
Portrait
of the canton
Canton Vianden is the smallest canton in Luxembourg, with an area of just 78 km² and a population of around 5,744 inhabitants (2025). The canton has only one official city: the city of Vianden, which is also the smallest city in the Grand Duchy. Despite its small size, Canton Vianden is one of the most prestigious in the country.
City of Vianden
Landscape
Canton Vianden is part of the Luxembourg Ardennes and is characterized by a rural and historically marked landscape.
The geology of the canton is dominated by slate and some sandstone. Important waterways include the rivers Blees and Our. Canton Vianden is located in the Our Nature Park, making it particularly attractive for hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Fouhren, Municipality of Tandel
View of the Our valley, near Nachtmanderscheid, Municipality of Putscheid
Weiler, Municipality of Putscheid
History
The castle of Vianden stands on a Gallo-Roman castellum and has been of strategic importance since antiquity. It reflects the former military significance of the city of Vianden. Over time, the castle developed into one of the largest castles in Europe. The lords of Vianden were indeed influential figures. Today, thousands of visitors admire the impressive ruins every year.
In the 19th century, the copper mining in Stolzembourg contributed to the canton’s prosperity. The old copper mine is now a popular tourist attraction. In the 20th century, the city of Vianden was the last city in Luxembourg to be liberated during World War II. In 1951, the Société électrique de l'Our was founded, laying the foundation for the monumental pumped-storage power plant at Niklosberg.
The castle of Vianden, City of Vianden
US-Monument "Op der Plank", City of Vianden
Copper Mine in Stolzembourg, Municipality of Putscheid
The pumped-storage power plant at Niklosberg, Municipality of Putscheid
Culture
At the beginning of the 19th century, the canton of Vianden was also known for the "Veiner Weisserten" – craftsmen who traveled the country to make music and "whiten" facades. Today, a monument next to the Vianden city hall commemorates their zest for life, which they never lost despite difficult times, and their strong connection to the city of Vianden.
Even the famous French humanist writer Victor Hugo resided, wrote, and drew in Vianden during his exile. His traces can still be found in many places throughout the canton today.
Festivals such as the Nut Market, the Vianden Medieval Festival, and the "Miertchen" highlight the strong sense of tradition among the people of Vianden.
Statue of the "Veiner Wäisserten" bt Marie-Josée Kerschen, City of Vianden
Attractions
Canton Vianden is one of the most visited places in Luxembourg. In addition to Vianden Castle, Branebourg Castle and Stolzembourg Castle shape the landscape.
The only chairlift in Luxembourg – on which even celebrities like Mick Jagger have taken a seat – offers a unique view over the city of Vianden.
The Our Valley Promenade provides a glimpse into the beautiful landscape along the river Our.
The castle of Brandenbourg, Municipality of Tandel
The castle of Stolzembourg, Municpality of Putscheid
City of Vianden