Just a few minutes from Luxembourg City, Walferdange has seen a remarkable transformation – from a quiet farming village to a lively, multicultural commune. Its history goes back centuries and continues to shape its identity today.
Ancient Roots and Historical Importance
The area of Walferdange has been settled since ancient times. One of the most impressive signs of this is the Raschpëtzer Qanat, a Roman underground water system built around 130 AD. Still active today and one of the best-preserved qanats north of the Alps, it highlights how sophisticated early engineers were.
Not far from the qanat, the remains of a Roman villa in Helmsange add to Walferdange’s rich past. Excavated in the early 1990s, the site revealed a large residence from the 1st century AD, used for over 300 years. With nearly 50 rooms and luxury items like bronze jewellery, glass beads, and over 400 Roman coins, the villa reflects the wealth and significance of the area during Roman times.
Together, the qanat and villa show that Walferdange was once a place of wealth, innovation, and importance during Roman times.
Becoming a Commune
After the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg became an independent State in 1839, Walferdange officially became a distinct commune on January 1, 1851, covering also Helmsange and Bereldange, in a split from neighboring Steinsel. Over time, it developed a strong identity and became more than just a quiet villages.
From Village Life to Growing Town
In 1925, about 1,500 people lived in Walferdange. Most worked in farming or small local businesses. Today, nearly 9,000 residents call the commune home. This sixfold increase reflects both the population growth in Luxembourg and the rising appeal of Walferdange as a place to live. More than half of the people living here are foreign nationals, giving the commune a truly international feel.
Schools, Transport, and Community Services
To keep up with its growing population, Walferdange has built strong public infrastructure. Each district—Walferdange, Helmsange, and Bereldange—has its own public school and Maison Relais. These provide a mix of education and care for children of different ages.
Walferdange also has a train station on the CFL Line 10, open since 1862, which makes commuting to Luxembourg City quick and easy. Bus lines and the “Walfy-Flexibus” help residents get around locally. For health and well-being, the PIDAL center – open since 1981 – offers fitness, swimming, and spa facilities for all ages.
Preserving the Past
Even with all the changes, Walferdange takes care of its history. Walferdange Castle, built between 1824 and 1828, has had many roles, from a royal residence to a hospital and a university building. Today, it hosts the Ministry of Education.
Another historic building, Maison Dufaing, built in 1852, was beautifully restored in 2009. It now serves as a space for community events and cultural activities. The presence of such buildings shows how the commune values its past.
A Place That Grows With Its People
Walferdange has grown steadily, always keeping a balance between progress and tradition. It offers modern services while staying connected to its roots. With its green spaces, historical charm, and welcoming atmosphere, it continues to be a place where people from all backgrounds come together to build a shared future.
