Abbey+of+Echternach

The Abbey of Echternach was founded in the 7th century by St. Willibrord, the patron saint of Luxembourg, and at the time an English monk. The Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in the town of Echternach. In 700, a missionary, Willibrord opened the first church at Echternach. The Church soon became a major Christian center in Northern Europe in the middle ages, and was popularly known as a cathedral even though it did not house a bishop.

The most popular event that happens at The Abbey of Echternach every year takes place on Whit Tuesday (the Tuesday after Pentecost Monday). This event is a dancing procession honoring St. Willibrord. This event is celebrated throughout the town of Echternach in Luxembourg where people travel throughout the town dancing. The procession starts at the bridge over the River Sauer in the morning and ends at The Abbey of Echternach. The route passes St. Willibrords crypt, which is located under the high altar. This procession makes Echternach a popular area for tourist with it being the last traditional dancing procession in Europe. Thousands of tourists and townspeople gather to participate every year.

In 1862, reconstruction was started because the quire had started to crumble and by 1868, complete reconstruction of the Abbey was completed and it was re-consecrated. In 1939, Pope Pius XII granted the Abbey the status of minor basilica. The church still stands today. It has its own museum with historical artifacts. A visit to the church and museum can include a guided tour and a visit to their gift shop.