In 2008, the ville neuve ("New Town") was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the "Fortifications of Vauban" group for its contributions to the development of military architecture and engineering.

It is produced today by the Société des faïenceries de Longwy et Senelle, often in cooperation with artists and ceramists.

Overglaze enamel decoration, known as émaux and often in a manner similar to cloisonné, has been produced in Longwy ceramics since 1872.

Vauban fortified the town during the reign of Louis XIV, having demolished the medieval Château de Longwy, of which one tower remains.

At the start of the war the fort at Longwy was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Natalis Constant Darche.