Pfaffenthal (Pafendall) is one of Luxembourg City's 24 districts. Located at the foot of the Rocher, below the Grande Duchesse Charlotte bridge, it stretches from Kirchberg to Limpertsberg, as far as the north-east of the Ville Haute, near the railway viaduct.
Pfaffenthal is a picturesque district of Luxembourg City. With its historic charm, narrow streets and old houses, it offers a unique, almost timeless atmosphere.
Long isolated, it has gained in attractiveness thanks to the introduction of the funicular and panoramic elevator, which quickly link it to neighboring districts. This authentic setting appeals to those looking for a quiet environment yet close to the city's dynamism. However, its topography and limited development make it more atypical than other residential areas of the capital.
Population in the Pfaffenthal district
| Pfaffenthal district | Luxembourg City | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of inhabitants on January 1, 2025 | 1.343 | 136.208 |
| Number of different nationalities | 75 | 169 |
| % foreigners in total population | 61,21% | 70,13% |
| Quality of life score (out of 100) awarded by residents | 86,05 | 77,84 |
The population of Pfaffenthal tends to be made up of working people aged between 30 and 59.
The historic village of Pfaffenthal in Luxembourg
The oldest district in the capital of the Grand Duchy, Pfaffenthal has been inhabited since Roman times. Like the Grund and Clausen districts, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Pfaffenthal has long been little-known and unappreciated, but has now been brought out of the shadows thanks to the panoramic elevator linking it directly to the upper town.
It has a very special atmosphere, quite different from other parts of Luxembourg City.
The Pfaffenthal district is like a small village out of time. It has a calm and peaceful atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the Ville-Haute.
Previously home to 2,500 inhabitants, the dismantling of the fortress in the 19th century left the area abandoned, and it now has 1,300 inhabitants.
Pfaffenthal (Pafendal in Lëtzebuergesch) bears witness to its Roman and artisan past. The road linking Reims and Trier crossed theAlzette here. In those days, the district lived off its small industries, with bistros and shops catering to locals and travelers alike. Today, the narrow, cobbled streets are still very peaceful.
Today, however, the district is enjoying a new lease of life. Thanks to the Pfaffenthal panoramic elevator, which opened in July 2016, the district is linked to the Ville-Haute on one side. On the other, the funicular provides direct access to the tramway and the Kirchberg district.
Pfaffenthal amenities in Luxembourg
The recent opening-up of Pfaffenthal has given the area a new lease of life. Professionals such as osteopaths, physiotherapists and lawyers are once again moving in, and local shops and bistros are coming back to life.
The former Muerbelsmillen mustard factory has been refurbished. One part has been converted into a "Moschterfabrik" museum and the other into student accommodation.
The Convent of the Holy Spirit has also been renovated. It now houses a residence for the elderly.
Transport/bus : Only buses 23 and CN1 pass through this neighborhood, with 9 bus stops.
The Pfaffenthal elevator, opened in 2016, transports more than 30,000 residents and tourists every month. It now provides quick access to the Ville-Haute's Pescatore park. On the other side of the valley, the funicular and its connection to the tramway provide rapid access to Kirchberg, at Pont Rouge level.
Schools: There is a precocious and fundamental school in this neighborhood. It is located on rue du Pont.
Shops: There is just one small grocery store. See shopping section.
Relaxation and leisure: nestling on the banks of the Alzette river, the district offers plenty of space for relaxation. It's ideal for cycling and jogging. There are several green spaces, including Parc Odendahl, a community garden and 4 playgrounds.
Sports enthusiasts can practice their favorite sport on a soccer pitch, a multi-sports field and the Stade Gaston Diderich.
Living at Pfaffenthal, Luxembourg
The neighborhood is a protected area. Residents have lived there for many years.
The Pfaffenthal district is undergoing a major transformation. Its strategic location between the Kirchberg business district and the city center makes it an ideally situated district, long disadvantaged by its isolation.
To find out more about the city of Luxembourg, read our study on the subject.
New construction is rare here, apart from social housing. Many empty buildings belong to the municipality. The few private mansions are offered at very high prices. Few products are for sale or rent, which explains the fairly wide annual variations.
Residents point out the difficulty of accessing the district, despite the presence of the funicular and its connection to the tramway. They would also like to see further development of green spaces and leisure facilities for local young people.
| Price per m2 for sale | Rental price per m2 |
|---|---|
| 10,285 euros | 33.99 euros |
| Up 12.66% year-on-year | Down 24.82% year-on-year |
| Luxembourg City comparison: 11,816 euros/m2 | Luxembourg City comparison: 34.14 euros/m2 |
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Find out more about the districts of Luxembourg City
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