Ralbitz-Rosenthal: Pilgrimage and Sorbian Heritage

Ralbitz-Rosenthal brings together a Marian pilgrimage site, Sorbian traditions and paths through flat countryside. In Rosenthal, the large pilgrimage church of Maria von der Linde stands prominently in the center, visible from afar; Ralbitz is another place with a history of its own, with its parish church and cemetery featuring white wooden crosses. Visitors can choose from different ways to spend their time: pilgrimage and customs, a marked hike, a picnic by Steinteich pond or a cycling tour with a short, rough stretch through the forest.

Pilgrimage and churches in Rosenthal and Ralbitz

Rosenthal is a Marian pilgrimage site where several pilgrimages take place each year. At the center of veneration is a devotional statue carved from linden wood, dated to around 1480. The Marienbrunnen fountain is traditionally believed to have healing properties. Rosenthal is also part of the Association of Central European Pilgrimage Centres. With its tall tower and curved spire, the large pilgrimage church of Maria von der Linde is a distinctive landmark visible from far away.

Ralbitz’s church history can also be traced through specific dates: the parish church ad St. Catharinam was built in 1752, and Ralbitz became an independent parish in 1754. The cemetery is known for its white wooden crosses. Together, these places show different facets of religious heritage, without requiring the pilgrimage church, parish church and cemetery to be combined into a single visit.

Sorbian customs and special occasions

Zampern is a traditional Lusatian custom in which gifts are collected for the carnival celebration. The exact form of participation in this recurring Sorbian tradition may vary. The Easter Riders’ procession also begins in Ralbitz: it passes through Cunnewitz, Schönau, Sollschwitz and Saalau on its way to Wittichenau. The route may vary. Open-air services are held at the Sühnungskapelle chapel on special occasions.

On foot through forests, meadows and fields

A tourism article dated July 3, 2025, lists five flat hiking trails through the forests, meadows and fields of Ralbitz-Rosenthal. As route information can change, check current details before finalising your plans. The Rosenthal hiking route is an easy, 7.7-kilometre circular trail marked with green dots.

There is a picnic spot by Steinteich pond along this route. You can watch amphibians and birds there, although sightings cannot be guaranteed. There are no places to stop for refreshments along the way, so bring a picnic. The route also passes through Dreihäuser, known as the birthplace of the Sorbian writer Jurij Brězan. This trail combines exercise with a cultural point of interest, without requiring a separate visit programme.

A route that can also be cycled

Tour 3 passes through Ralbitz, Cunnewitz, Schönau and Rosenthal and can also be done by bicycle. It connects to the KRABAT Cycle Route and the Sorbian Impressions Cycle Route. On a short, rough stretch through the forest, bicycles must be pushed; trail conditions may vary. Bear this section in mind when considering the tour by bike.

For a different kind of outing, Bienenhof Regina offers visits to its educational trail with a guided tour and tasting by prior booking. The beekeeping tradition there dates back more than 80 years. Check the current booking conditions in advance if you are planning a visit.

Discover more destinations: Schmölln-Putzkau, Schwepnitz, Wittichenau, Elstra, Bischofswerda, Radibor, Burkau, Bretnig-Hauswalde

See the main travel overview: Bautzen District.