Approximately two weeks ago, loose stones from a cliff-side wall fell behind two houses in the Grund neighbourhood of Luxembourg City. According to the National Roads Authority, severe weather conditions were the likely cause.
The rockfall occurred on the night of 13-14 January 2026 on Montée de la Pétrusse. When contacted by RTL, the Authority cited recent “unfavourable weather conditions,” including severe frost, heavy rain, and temperature fluctuations of up to 20 degrees Celsius in a short period. Spokesman Ralph Di Marco stated that it happens “time and again that stones break away from a rock face due to weathering and frost effects.”
The Authority explained that cliffs “where the base is accessible to the public” are regularly inspected to minimise risks, as their bases are typically forests or meadows not directly affecting private property. In this instance, however, it was only through “recent surveys of state land” that the Authority determined its responsibility for the cliff, establishing that “the entire cliff down to its base is still part of the state’s private domain.”
Upon being informed of the incident, the Authority despatched a specialised company with industrial climbers, alongside the Geological Survey, to assess and secure the site. Given the difficult access and nearby structures, the area will first be temporarily secured with a safety net. Following this, remaining loose stones will be safely dislodged and removed.
As a definitive solution, the “retaining wall” at the top of the cliff in the affected area is scheduled for repair.
Residents of the affected houses have expressed satisfaction with the Authority’s response to the situation.
