Victor Hugo (1802-1885) was deeply fond of Luxembourg, and the Grand Duchy warmly returned the compliment. In addition to Clervaux, Echternach and Larochette, the French poet and playwright fell for the charm of Vianden (famous for its castle, now known as one of the world’s finest) where he stayed on several occasions during his exile. He had, in fact, been obliged to leave France in 1851 following Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte’s “coup d’état”.

Victor Hugo then described the town of Vianden as “a splendid landscape which will one day come visit all of Europe”. Expelled from Belgium in 1871 for offering asylum to Parisian Communards, he settled his family in Vianden – in the inn of Marie Koch (today’s Hôtel Victor Hugo) – and rented a room in a neighbouring house offering a clear view of the castle. Peaceful scenery providing inspiration for about 50 poems. This house became the Victor Hugo Literary Museum. It gives a glimpse of the writer’s life and his ties with Luxembourg in a collection of personal belongings, unpublished documents and other curiosities, such as a strand of his hair snipped here by his mistress, Juliette Drouet. On the facade, an inscription reminds us that “It was in this house that Victor Hugo spent his fifth and final stay in Vianden”. Just opposite, on the bridge, a bust in his effigy, a replica of Auguste Rodin’s masterpiece, bears witness to the town’s admiration for the great writer.

Musée Littéraire Victor Hugo : 37 rue de la Gare, Vianden
www.victor-hugo.lu