Although Luxembourg is one of the smaller European Countries by area, there are 29 smaller recognised sovereign states globally. Its population of 576,000 is of a similar size to Cabo Verde. (There are about 500 cities with populations of more than 1 million). Like Cabo Verde's mixed heritage, Luxembourg has a mix of French & Germanic cultures and repeated invasions by both has led to a strong interest in playing the mediation role. It now serves as the seat of the European Court of Justice. The country's history began as a town grew up around a fortress that guarded the crossing of two Roman roads. Despite being regularly strengthened by the victors, it was conquered variously by the Spanish, French, Austrians, and Prussians. Borders never really applied to the ruling classes. Three members of the House of Luxembourg reigned as Holy Roman Emperor in the 14th and 15th century. Luxembourg long attempted a policy of neutrality, but this ended after its World War II occupation by Germany, and it became a founding member of several inter-governmental institutions.
Luxembourg (Left) - The Netherlands (Right)
No comments:
Post a Comment