St. Willibrord, Echternach

Visited the oldest town in Luxembourg, founded in 698 by St Willibrord, a monk of Irish origin. Situated at 160 meters above sea-level with a population of 5200 inhabitants. Located in the meander and valley of the Sauer and at the centre of the ‘Petite Suisse Luxembourgeoise’, which is part of the German-Luxembourg nature park. 2000 years of prestigious history bear witness to many architectural heritages: the Roman villa with pars urbana, the St. Peter and Paul Church with merovingian, romanesque and gothic styles, the romanesque Basilica with crypt and tomb of St. Willibrord, the Cross of Justice and the gothic Town Hall on the market place, remnants of the ancient town wall with 7 restored medieval towers, the baroque Benedictine Abbey, the Rococo Pavillion in the municipal park, 4 museums, a pedestrian zone, a recreational centre with 60 ha. lake, 70 km of extensive tourist paths for walks through unique wood and rock landscapes. The Spring Procession takes place on Tuesday after Whitsun. The classical music festival has been held in May/June since 1975. 15 hotels, numerous restaurants, youth hostel, 2 camping sites.