It is easy to overlook the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a tiny little country dwarfed between its neighbors France, Germany and Belgium, when planning a tour of Europe. If it is thought of at all, it is probably as a rather unexciting place full of important banking institutions and European Union bureaucrats. This little country is, however, located at the crossroads of several major highways, and if you are going to travel through it, don't hesitate to stop awhile and probe behind the glass office blocks and official buildings to find a land of fascinating medieval fortresses, rolling woodlands, sun- drenched castles and quaint villages.

Full country name: Grand Duch of Luxembourg
Area: 2586 sq Km ( 999 sq mil)
Population: 440,000
Capitals: Luxembourg city
People: 70% nationals (Celtic stock, with French and German), 30% resident foreigners (mostly Belgian, French, German, Italian and Portuguese)
Language: The official language is Letzebuergesch, French, German
Religion: 97% Roman Catholic
Government: Constitutional monarchy
GDP: US$14 billion
GDP per head: US$32,700
Major industries: Iron and steel, plastic and rubber, chemicals, mechanical and electrical equipment
Major trading partners: EU (esp. Belgium, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands)