Imagine stepping back in time to 1644, when the Spaniards were busy fortifying the medieval defenses of Luxembourg. Under the expert eye of Swiss fortress builder Isaac von Treybach, they constructed the formidable Beck Bastion. Named after Governor Baron Johann von Beck, a local hero who played a pivotal role in the Wallenstein affair, this bastion originally stood as tall as the nearby terraces. It wasn't until 1685 that Vauban raised it to its current height of 27 meters at Constitution Square.
In 1673, the Spaniards added another layer to their defense strategy by constructing the "Ravelin du Pate," a triangular fortification that's still remarkably well-preserved today. Vauban also gave the Petrusse fortifications their current form and added the "Small Staircase." Fast forward to 1728-29, when the Austrians joined in by adding the "Bourbon Lock" and the "Large Staircase." By 1746, the casemates of the "Petrusse Battery" boasted 54 gun emplacements. Over the next century, the fortress expanded even further, earning Luxembourg the nickname "Gibraltar of the North."
However, as time passed, the strategic importance of the Petrusse fortifications dwindled, and they were mostly forgotten. The 1867 London Treaty led to the dismantling of many parts, leaving only walled-up loopholes and sealed entrances. It wasn't until 1933 that the Petrusse casemates got a new lease on life. On July 26th of that year, the first visitors were welcomed to explore their historic depths. For travelers with a love for history and adventure, the Petrusse Casemates offer a fascinating glimpse into Luxembourg's past. The intricate network of tunnels and chambers is a testament to the city's strategic importance and architectural prowess. So, if you ever find yourself in Luxembourg, make sure to carve out some time to wander through these awe-inspiring remnants of history.