Pilgrimage to Wiltz: order, faith and conservation

On the Catholic feast of the Ascension, which this year fell on Thursday, hundreds of pilgrims travelled to Viltz, a small town in northern Luxembourg, to honour Our Lady of Fatima. Although the date of the feast falls on Thursday, the first worshippers began arriving mid-Wednesday, and the police immediately began policing the area.

This annual pilgrimage has long been a spiritual tradition for many Luxembourgers. The statue of the Virgin Mary of Fatima, to which the faithful flock, is regarded as an object of special veneration, especially on major church holidays.

The authorities reminded of a number of strict rules that participants must observe. First of all, wild camping, especially along roads, is strictly prohibited. This is not only due to legal issues, but also to safety risks. If necessary, the police will redirect people to official campsites. In addition, fires and barbecues are prohibited in natural areas.

Organisers and law enforcement officials also ask everyone to respect the environment and not to leave litter. Drivers are reminded of the need to strictly observe road signs, parking restrictions and possible road closures.

To reduce pressure on urban infrastructure and minimise the impact on nature, pilgrims are strongly encouraged to use public transport, Park & Ride car parks and shuttles that ply the routes to the pilgrimage site.

The night is only allowed to take place at official camping sites, and all participants are required to follow the directions of the police officers on site. Police will be on duty in and around Vilce on both Wednesday and Thursday, ensuring the safety of worshippers and residents alike.