Diekirch

Diekirch is located in the north of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, right in the heart of the Éislek region. The town, that counts about 7,300 inhabitants, lies directly on the River Sauer, the largest left-hand tributary of the Moselle, and is surrounded by hills such as the Haardt and the Goldknapp. Together with Ettelbruck, Diekirch forms the core of the Nordstad, an urban area in northern Luxembourg.

Diekirch – Town on the River Sauer in the Éislek

Diekirch and its Donkeys

Diekirch is especially well known for its donkeys, which have become the town’s mascot. According to legend, they once helped with the heavy work in the steep vineyards of the Härebierg. Because many donkeys were kept here, they became a symbol of the town. Today, visitors can spot donkeys in many forms – as sculptures in the town centre, at the Ieselsbuer fountain, or even as living animals along the Sauer river. A charming detail: instead of a weathercock, the tower of the Laurentius Church is crowned by a donkey.

History and Culture

The history of Diekirch dates back to Roman times. The foundations of the Laurentius Church originate from this era. In the Museum of the History(ies) of Diekirch, visitors can also discover Roman traces, including an impressive mosaic.

Diekirch is also famous for its beer, which is still brewed in the town today. The Brewery History Museum showcases the long tradition and presents historic advertising material spanning more than a century.

The pedestrian zone in the town centre – the very first in Luxembourg – invites visitors to stroll through its small shops, cafés and restaurants.

Things to See in Diekirch

Diekirch offers a wide range of museums and cultural attractions:

• National Museum of Military History: Focused on the Battle of the Bulge in the Second World War, which destroyed much of the town centre. Life-size dioramas, military artefacts and around 50 vehicles bring history vividly to life.
• Museum of the History(ies) of Diekirch: Covering the town’s history from prehistory to the present day.
• National Conservatory for Historic Vehicles: With rotating exhibitions dedicated to classic cars.
• Brewery History Museum: Insights into the evolution of the well-known Diekirch Brewery.

Another important landmark is the Laurentius Church, whose crypt is underground and connected to the Museum of the History(ies). It can be visited as part of the exhibition tour.

Culture & Traditions

Diekirch is also known for its lively festivals and traditions:

• The Cavalcade, a carnival parade held on the Sunday before Shrove Monday, attracts around 20,000 visitors, making it one of the largest in Luxembourg.
• Al Dikkrich, the traditional fair in July, lasts five days and brings thousands of people together for concerts, cultural events and social gatherings.
• The popular Beer Festival takes place over the Whitsun weekend.
• The Marche Internationale de Diekirch, a two-day walking event, leads participants through the green hills of the Éislek. Distances from 12 to 80 kilometres are available.

Hiking around Diekirch

Nature lovers can explore the Éislek Pad Diekirch, a 14.5-kilometre hiking trail through the surrounding landscapes. In addition, several shorter circular routes run through the municipality and its scenic surroundings.

Food, Drink & Accommodation

Diekirch offers numerous restaurants, cafés and bars where visitors can enjoy Éislek hospitality. In summer, many terraces invite you to relax and spend time outdoors.

Accommodation options include a campsite, several hotels and holiday rentals.

Thanks to excellent bus and train connections, Diekirch is easy to reach. Direct connections link the town with Vianden and its castle as well as Luxembourg City. For more detailed information, visitors can contact the local Tourist Info. Here, visitors are welcomed in the national languages German, French and Luxembourgish, as well as in English and Dutch.