Echternach: The Jewel of Luxembourg’s Mullerthal Region

• HelloMoien
  [mwɑɪən]
• GoodbyeÄddi
  [ɛdi]
• YesJo
  [jo]
• NoNee
  [neː]
• Please/You're welcomeWann ech gelift
  [van ɛç ɡəlɪft]
• Thank youMerci
  [mɛʁsi]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschëllegt
  [ɛntʃɜləʃt]
• How are you?Wéi geet et dir?
  [vɛi ɡeːt ɛt diːɐ]
• Fine. And you?Gutt. An du?
  [ɡut ɑn du]
• Do you speak English?Schwätzt dir Englesch?
  [ʃvɛts diːɐ ɛŋləʃ]
• I don't understandEch verstinn net
  [ɛç fəʁʃtiːn nɛt]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEch géif gär d'Menü gesinn, w.e.g.
  [ɛʃ ɡeːf ɡeːɐ dəˈməny ɡəzɪn veː ɛː ɡeː]
• I don't eat meatEch iessen keng Fleesch
  [ɛʃ iːsən keŋ flɛːʃ]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [pʁɔst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEch géif gär bezuelen, w.e.g.
  [ɛʃ ɡeːf ɡeɐ beˈtsʊlən veː ɛː ɡeː]

• Help!Hëllef!
  [hɛləf]
• Go away!Géi ewech!
  [ɡəi əvɛɕ]
• Call the Police!Ruff d'Polizei!
  [ʁʊf dpoliˈʦai]
• Call a doctor!Ruff en Dokter!
  [ʁʊf ən ˈdɔktɐ]
• I'm lostEch hunn mech verluer
  [ɛʃ hʊn məʃ fɛʁluəʁ]
• I'm illEch sinn krank
  [ɛʃ sɪn kʁaŋk]

• I'd like to buy...Ech géif ... kafen
  [ɛʃ ɡeːf ... ˈkɑfən]
• I'm just lookingEch kuck just
  [ɛʃ kʊk just]
• How much is it?Wéi vill kascht dat?
  [vɛi fɪl kast da]
• That's too expensiveDat ass ze deier
  [dat ɑs tsə deːɐ]
• Can you lower the price?Kënnt dir den Präis erofsetzen?
  [kənt diːɐ deːn prɛɪs ˈeʁɔfzɛʦən]

• What time is it?Wéi spéit ass et?
  [vɛi ʃpɛɪt ɑs ɛt]
• It's one o'clockEt ass eppeséng
  [ɛt ɑs ˈɛpəzeŋ]
• Half past (10)Hallef zéng
  [haˈlɛf zeŋ]
• MorningMuer
  [muəʁ]
• AfternoonNomëttern
  [noˈmɛtən]
• EveningOwend
  [ˈoʋənt]
• YesterdayGëschter
  [ˈɡəʃtɐ]
• TodayHaut
  [ho]
• TomorrowMuer
  [muəʁ]
• 1Eng
  [eŋ]
• 2Zwei
  [t͡svaɪ]
• 3Dräi
  [dʀɛɪ]
• 4Véier
  [ˈveɪər]
• 5Fënnef
  [ˈfɜnəf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeːʃs]
• 7Siwen
  [ˈsiwən]
• 8Aacht
  [aːçt]
• 9Néng
  [neŋ]
• 10Zéng
  [zeŋ]

• Where's a/the...?Wou ass e(n) ...?
  [vu as ən]
• What's the address?Wat ass d'Adress?
  [vat as dadres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kënnt dir mir dat weisen (op der Kaart)?
  [kənt diːɐ miːʁ dat vaɪzən ɔp dɐ kaːt]
• When's the next (bus)?Wénn ass de(n) nächste(n) (Bus)?
  [vɛn as dən næxtən bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Ee Billett (no ....)
  [eː bɪlɛt no]

Echternach, one of Luxembourg's oldest towns, was founded in 698 AD by St. Willibrord, an Anglo-Saxon missionary. He established the Abbey of Echternach, which became a center of Christian learning and culture in the region. The abbey attracted scholars and pilgrims from across Europe and played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in the area.

The Abbey of Echternach was not only a religious but also a cultural hub. It housed a scriptorium where monks intricately copied and illuminated manuscripts, including the famous Echternach Gospels. The abbey also played a significant role in the Carolingian Renaissance, a period of cultural revival and intellectual activity in the Frankish Empire.

During the Middle Ages, Echternach thrived as a market town. Its strategic location on the banks of the Sauer River facilitated trade and commerce. The town was fortified with walls and towers, remnants of which can still be seen today. Echternach also benefited from the patronage of the Holy Roman Emperors, who granted it numerous privileges.

The Dancing Procession of Echternach is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event that dates back to the Middle Ages. Held annually on Whit Tuesday, it involves pilgrims performing a hopping dance through the streets to honor St. Willibrord. This unique tradition attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a testament to the town's rich cultural heritage.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Echternach experienced a period of architectural and artistic flourishing. The town saw the construction of several Renaissance and Baroque buildings, including the Basilica of St. Willibrord, which showcases stunning Baroque interiors. The abbey's library was also expanded, becoming one of the most significant in the region.

Echternach faced challenges during the modern era, including destruction during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. However, the town was meticulously rebuilt, preserving its historical character. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and continuity, with its historical sites meticulously restored and maintained.

Echternach is located in the eastern part of Luxembourg, near the German border. The nearest international airport is Luxembourg Airport (LUX), approximately 35 kilometers from Echternach. From the airport, you can take a bus, taxi, or rental car to reach Echternach. There are regular bus services (line 110) connecting Luxembourg City to Echternach, which typically takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Luxembourg City to Echternach, enjoying the scenic route through the Luxembourgish countryside.

Echternach is a relatively small town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local buses are available and operate on a regular schedule. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Renting a bicycle is a popular option for tourists, as it allows you to explore the beautiful Mullerthal Region, also known as 'Little Switzerland'. For those looking to venture further, consider renting a car, which offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency in Luxembourg is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in Echternach, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the town, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed.

Echternach is generally a safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crimes are rare. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to emergency services including police, fire, and medical help. Echternach has a local police station and medical facilities to address emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. When visiting religious sites, modest clothing is advisable. Avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites like the Basilica of Echternach. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Moien' (Luxembourgish for hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans) and Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes). Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Echternach like a local, visit the weekly market held every Thursday, where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Take a stroll around the picturesque Lake Echternach and enjoy the serene surroundings. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s rich history. Don't miss the Echternach Dancing Procession, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event held annually on Whit Tuesday. For a unique experience, explore the Mullerthal Trail, which offers breathtaking views and takes you through the stunning landscapes of the region.