Echternach (10 Jun 08)

Echternach is the next stop to gain a cultural understanding of Luxembourg. It's a small town of about 5000 people and the oldest town in Luxembourg.

Located deep in the Mullerthal forested region of the country, a bus ride is the way to go!



The main town square with the Urtsel or the Law Cross. Used to demonstrate the abbot's supremacy over the townspeople and a symbol of medieval power


This walking guide is seriously good and informative! Picked up from the local tourist office

The Basilica of Saint-Willibrord, the most important religious building in Echternach, for it was Saint Willibrord, an Anglo-Saxon monk who founded the abbey


Inside the museum with crypts, magnificent medieval manuscripts and treasures



The Orangerie, or Abbey Garden


Interestingly, the 4 statues on the front side of the Orangerie is supposed to illustrate the 4 seasons


The Pavilion

Sights along the municipal park and river Sure



Remains of the fortified town wall dating back to the 10th century, but now transformed into a tourist lodging!


Remains of the wall which have also gradually blended in with the neighbourhood






Weather's so hot that food can be sun-dried outside


The Denzelt, the ancient Palace of Justice

St Peter and Paul Church, built upon the remains of an ancient Roman castle

The Parlodrome, or garden pavilion, housed at the back of the basilica


A visit to the Roman Villa which was unearthed during excavation works to build an artificial lake in the area






For awhile, kinda reminded me of the ruins at Pompeii in Italy....but of course the site at Pompeii still beats all...

For more photos, go here