The Haff Réimech is now one of the most important nature reserves in Luxembourg. It owes its origins in Remerschen, municipality of Schengen, to an unusual development.
The water areas and reed belts are the result of decades of gravel mining along the Moselle. Great crested grebes, herons and numerous migratory birds now roam around and in the “Baggerweieren”. An oasis of peace for walkers. Bird watchers appreciate the area, which is considered a resting place for birds and a habitat for rare species.
A landscape shaped by humans gradually developed into a valuable habitat for numerous animal and plant species.
With the opening of Biodiversum in 2016, this unique wetland received a modern visitor center. Since then, it has brought visitors closer to the natural and biodiversity of Lagoon Réimech. More than 20,000 people visit Biodiversum every year. Exhibitions, guided tours and educational programs provide knowledge about the wildlife of the nature reserve, but also about the historical and geological development of the landscape.
The architecture of the biodiversity also tells a story. Designed by Luxembourg architect François Valentiny, the wooden building is reminiscent of the hull of an upturned boat and at the same time a Celtic longhouse. It thus reflects the region’s close connection to water and its long history of settlement. The large window fronts provide a direct view of the ponds and reed beds of Haff Réimech. Nature itself becomes part of the exhibition.
Anniversary celebration in Biodiversum: Michel Leytem, Director of Nature Administration at the lectern © Photo: Editpress/Julien Garroy
/
Interactivity is king in the biodiverse © Photo: Editpress/Julien Garroy
/
Nature on your doorstep
The biodiverse bears the name of Camille Gira. The politician, who died in 2018, is one of the defining figures of nature and environmental protection in Luxembourg. As State Secretary and long-standing member of parliament, he repeatedly campaigned for the preservation of valuable natural areas. A few months after his death, the visitor center was named after him.
Ten years after its opening, Biodiversum has long since become an integral part of Luxembourg’s environmental education. School classes, families, nature lovers and tourists use the center to discover the special landscape of Lagoon Réimech. At a time when the protection of biological diversity is becoming increasingly important worldwide, its task remains more relevant than ever: to impart knowledge, create understanding and inspire people about the nature on their doorstep.
Further information at: biodiversum.lu.
