Who knew this small but gorgeous country would be our top favorite country in the world? Yes, Luxembourg had this effect on us. It was mildly drizzling when got down in city central station. We could feel the winter's bittery onslaught. Fortunately our hotel was just a stone's throw away. We didn't want to curl in bed and while away the whole day in this beautiful country. After dropping off luggage we decided to brave the chill and drizzle. Our receptionist Nicole was considerate enough to offer us two umbrellas. And she insisted us to take the city bus when we told her where we want to go. "Which number" we asked? Any bus you take, you get down at city center, bus is free on Saturday in Luxembourg". We were thrilled to say the list. As we have inside joke among ourselves. We would even grab poison if it is free. You don't know when it can come handy.
As we walked towards the Constitution Square a riot of fall colors welcomed us. We were jubilant to put it mildly. While we were chatting incessantly a man quietly approached us asking are we from Bangalore in Kannada. After initial introduction we had a very lengthy conversation with that gentleman. It turned out he is in the process of starting a travel business and this is one of his official tours. After exchanging numbers we parted ways.
Info: Gelle Fra or Monument of Remembrance is a war memorial. Around 3700 Luxembourgers served in French army when Germans occupied their country, among 2000 died serving the nation. To remember their bravery, sacrifice, and valor it was decided to erect a monument.
A 21 metre tall granite obelisk was built as the centerpiece. A gilded bronze statue representing Nike, goddess of victory or queen of freedom was placed atop the obelisk. The lady holds a Laurel wreath as if placing it upon the head of the nation. There are two bronze figures at the base of the obelisk, one lies at foot representing the Luxembourgish soldier died in war and another sits, grieving for his dead country man. Having built first in 1923, Gelle Fra dismantled in 1940 by Nazi forces. Most portion of monument was rescued and restored after the war. However, Gelle Fra was recovered in January 1980 beneath the main stand of the national football stadium. The monument was ultimately unveiled to the public on June 23, 1985 on Luxembourg's national holiday in the presence of grand Duke Jean.
It is a testament to pay tribute to the brave Luxembourgers who laid their life in line of duty during both world wars as well as Korean war. As it often happens we had a lengthy discussion about World Wars and what affects it had on the rest of the world. Sounds boring, well for us history is obsession.
Tips
-Buses are free on Saturday and sometimes on Sunday (we were lucky in that way)
-Day pass costs 4€ in bus
-Hop-on Hop-off: 14€ (individual) and 11€ (group)
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