Luxembourg, Population

The inhabitants of Luxembourg are mostly of German and French background but have a distinct national consciousness. The population of Luxembourg (2002 estimate) is 448,569, giving the country an overall population density of 173 persons per sq km (449 per sq mi). The principal cities are centers of industrial production. The capital and largest city is Luxembourg City, also known as Luxembourg-Ville, with a population (1998) of 79,500. Other important cities are Esch-sur-Alzette (population, 1998 estimate, 24,600), Differdange (16,800), and Dudelange (16,400).

Roman Catholics are 94 percent of the inhabitants of Luxembourg. The national language, called Letzeburgesch (Luxembourgisch), is a Germanic language. French and German are also used in official publications and in schools. Education is compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 15, and illiteracy is almost nonexistent. The University Center of Luxembourg (1969) is situated in Luxembourg City, and the country also has several schools of music and technology.