The pilgrimage church of Maria von der Linde, visible from far away, draws the eye to Rosenthal’s pilgrimage tradition; in Ralbitz, the parish church and cemetery tell of religious history. For time outdoors, the easy, signposted loop near Rosenthal offers a different perspective. Tour 3 passes through several villages and can also be done by bicycle, but includes a short rough section through the woods where you will have to push your bike.
Pilgrimage and Religious Heritage
Rosenthal is a Marian pilgrimage site that hosts several pilgrimages each year. At its heart is a devotional statue of the Virgin Mary, carved from limewood and dating to around 1480. The waters of the Marian fountain are traditionally believed to have healing properties. The large pilgrimage church of Maria von der Linde, with its tall tower and curved spire roof, is visible from far away. If you wish to attend a specific pilgrimage, check the date of the event in advance.
Ralbitz also has its own church history: the parish church ad St. Catharinam was built in 1752; in 1754, Ralbitz became an independent parish. The two years mark separate milestones: the construction of the church and the village’s ecclesiastical independence. Ralbitz Cemetery is known for its white wooden crosses. The church and cemetery thus offer two distinct points of connection for anyone interested in the village’s religious history.
Customs and Easter Riding
Zampern is a traditional Lusatian custom in which people collect donations for the Carnival celebrations. Another annual event is the Easter riding procession: it starts in Ralbitz and passes through Cunnewitz, Schönau, Sollschwitz and Saalau on its way to Wittichenau. The route may vary. If you are travelling to see the Easter riding, check the date and route in advance. Outdoor services are held at the Sühnungskapelle on special occasions.
Hiking, Picnics and Cycling
The Rosenthal hiking trail is an easy, 7.7-kilometre circular walk marked with a green dot. There is a picnic area at Steinteich, where you can watch amphibians and birds. There are no restaurants along the trail, so bring a picnic to plan your break at Steinteich without relying on somewhere to eat.
Along the Rosenthal hiking trail, Landbäckerei Scholze offers fresh baked goods. Check its opening hours and availability before visiting. Do not plan your hike solely around this option; also bear in mind the recommendation to bring provisions.
Tour 3 passes through Ralbitz, Cunnewitz, Schönau and Rosenthal. It can also be done by bicycle; however, you will have to push your bike along a short rough section through the woods. Tour 3 also connects to the KRABAT Cycle Route and the Sorbian Impressions Cycle Route. The routes offer different features to consider: the Rosenthal trail is an easy loop of a stated length, while Tour 3 passes through several villages and has a specific restriction for cyclists.
A Look Inside Beekeeping
Bienenhof Regina offers visits to its educational trail, including a guided tour and tasting, by prior booking. The apiary has a tradition spanning more than 80 years. As booking conditions may change, confirm the details of your visit in advance.
Discover more destinations: Königsbrück, Ohorn, Haselbachtal, Schmölln-Putzkau, Lichtenberg, Hochkirch, Neukirch/Lausitz, Cunewalde
Back to the regional travel guide: Bautzen District.
