Abbey of Echternach

A historic 7th-century monastery recognised for its beautiful Romanesque architecture.

One of the oldest and most significant religious sites in the nation, the monastery was founded in the seventh century. It bears St. Willibrord's name, an English monk who established the monastery in the year 698 AD. The ancient abbey was completely destroyed by fire in the eleventh century, and it was reconstructed in the twelve century in the Romanesque fashion.

Over the ages, the abbey has experienced numerous modifications and expansions, including the construction of a Gothic choir in the fifteenth century and a Baroque front in the eighteenth. The oldest remaining structural component of the ancient monastery, the abbey's crypt dates to the eighth century and is one of its most well-known features. The grave of St. Willibrord is located in the crypt, a popular stopping point for travellers interested in learning more about the illustrious past of the abbey.

The Abbey of Echternach is well-known for its cultural history in addition to its religious significance. Many museums and exhibitions that highlight the history and art of the area are housed at the monastery. A museum of folklore and traditions, which emphasises the habits and traditions of the local community, is one of them. Another is a museum of religious art, which houses a collection of manuscripts, paintings, and sculptures from the Middle Ages. Thousands of dancers and musicians perform traditional dances in honour of St Willibrord during the abbey's annual dancing procession, which is held on Whit Tuesday. One of the most significant cultural events in Luxembourg is the procession, which is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.