Since the early 19th century, several thousand associations have been founded in Luxembourg’s capital, of which only a small number exist to this day. Nevertheless, the end of the “club phenomenon” is not in sight. Associations continue to play an important role: they address all social classes and cover the most diverse activities. Starting from the premise that every association is a reflection of the society in which it was founded, the exhibition shows the long history of Luxembourg’s associative life through selected examples.
The exhibition starts with the precursors of the associations in the Ancien Régime, the brotherhoods and the Freemasons, whereas the roots of the “modern” associations go back to the beginning of the 19th century, when several reading societies were founded. After the constitution of 1848 granted the Luxembourgers freedom of association, numerous sports and cultural clubs were formed, which became a phenomenon in society as a whole. Their success continued until the German occupation during the Second World War. After the war, most of the clubs resumed their activities.

In cooperation with various associations located on the territory of Luxembourg City, this exhibition presents a variety of historical objects from the possession of active or already disbanded associations.

A catalogue will be published in conjunction with the exhibition.

Date

25 March > 9 July 2023