Self-guided AR historical tour

Discover the city’s history with augmented reality. Screengrab: Luxembourg City YouTube channel

Download the Luxembourg Time Traveller app to discover what the capital once looked like.

“Take a trip back through time to explore Luxembourg City at the turn of the 20th century,” says the Luxembourg City webpage devoted to the app. “The city’s economic and commercial development were in full swing, and small businesses were gradually being replaced by large stores.”

The app--which is free--will detect when you approach one of 31 landmarks in Luxembourg City and offer guidance and information. Thirteen of these sites feature augmented reality functions, designed to let you peek into what the city once looked like. For instance, a “before/after” feature lets you slide between images: present and past.

Note: although this event page mentions 3 December, the app is free to download and is for private use. Go whenever you want, at your own pace. Bring your family and friends (if you wish).

Serge Wilmes--recently appointed environment and civil service minister--commented, during his previous role as chief alderperson of Luxembourg City: “Residents and visitors to the capital now have a fabulous tool at their disposal, which allows them to discover and rediscover the city through these historic street scenes. The city centre abounds with places, buildings and monuments with a story to tell. Not only do users have a wealth of information at their fingertips, but they can also view the capital's shops as they have changed, from the Belle Époque to today.”

Find more information (including download links and a preview video) .