The Partitions of Luxembourg

Map created by the.world.in.maps based on this map by FurfurThe map above shows how Luxembourg, one of Europe’s smallest countries, has shrunk over the centuries.

Here’s a breakdown of the reasons behind each loss:

 

1659 – Loss to France (Treaty of the Pyrenees)

• Context: This treaty ended the Franco-Spanish War (1635–1659), which was part of the wider Thirty Years’ War and subsequent conflicts.
• Why Luxembourg lost land: At the time, Luxembourg was part of the Spanish Netherlands under Habsburg Spain. France demanded border fortresses to strengthen its north-eastern frontier against Spain.
• Result: France annexed parts of Luxembourg (shown in green on the map), including Montmédy and other fortresses.

1815 – Loss to Prussia (Congress of Vienna)

• Context: After Napoleon’s defeat, the Congress of Vienna (1814–1815) redrew the map of Europe to create a balance of power.
• Why Luxembourg lost land: To strengthen Prussia against France, the eastern part of Luxembourg was transferred to Prussia. This became part of the Prussian Rhine Province.
• Result: The German Confederation also made Luxembourg a member state, and the fortress of Luxembourg City was garrisoned by Prussia.

1839 – Loss to Belgium (Treaty of London)

• Context: Belgium had revolted against Dutch rule in 1830, and Luxembourg was caught in the middle because it was ruled by the Dutch king (who was also Grand Duke of Luxembourg).
• Why Luxembourg lost land: To settle the Belgian Revolution and recognize Belgium’s independence, the Treaty of London split Luxembourg. The western, predominantly French-speaking half was given to Belgium, becoming the province of Luxembourg in Belgium.
• Result: What remained was a much smaller Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (shown in red on the map).

Just remember:  Luxembourg Is Not A Microstate!