pink gilt furniture and a grand piano. The school closed unexpectedly in the spring of 1970. This sudden closure left many hardships for the students and local citizens of Luxembourg. Since 1987, the castle has belonged to the Japanese new religious organisation Sûkyô Mahikari which uses the castle as its European and Africa headquarters and holds monthly Ceremonies and seminars throughout the year for its members. Sukyo Mahikari promotes such concepts as "The Baptism by Fire." which can be survived with "Salvation by Divine Light." The members claim to be able to radiate Divine Light from their hands after attending a three day seminar. Sukyo Mahikari has undertaken substantial renovation work with the assistance of Luxembourg's Service des Sites et Monuments nationaux. Initially work was centred on reinforcing the foundations and walls and on restoring the staircase of honour on the upper terrace in the gardens. From 1999, the statues and the fountains in the garden were repaired while the roofs over the two wings and the central section were rebuilt. Work is now concentrated on restoring the oldest part of the building which dates from the 17th century. The castle gardens are open to visitors from 9 am every day. The castle also hosts a number of cultural events during the year. Gallery See also Ansembourg Castle List of castles in Luxembourg References External links Grand Château d'Ansembourg website Castles in Luxembourg Convention centres in Luxembourg Mersch (canton)