Located in the heart of the Ardennes, in the north-western part of Luxembourg, the town of Wiltz was originally inhabited by the Celts and received its town rights in 1240. The upper-town features the castle of the former counts of Wiltz, whom were among the oldest in Luxembourg, overlooking the lower-town in a wide valley on both banks of the Wiltz river. In more recent history, Wiltz was occupied by the Nazis in May 1940 until its liberation in January 1945. The town is remembered as the battle ground in the Battle of the Bulge near the end of World War II which destroyed 80 percent of the homes.
The best way to explore Witz is by foot on the town's cultural walking trails. Enjoy the 3km yellow trail to journey through upper town and read the 12 inscriptions which describe how the area received its name of Martyr town. You'll pass by the Jardin de Wiltz, the parish church of Notre Dame with its baroque high alter. Or choose to hop on the 4.5km red trail and travel from the Nieder-Wiltz bridge to the sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and Decanal church. For the history enthusiasts, take remembrance trail to Schumann's Eck passing the corners where American and German soldiers fought and arriving at a tomb to the 28th infantry division and the National Liberation Monument.
Situated in 600 acres of lawns and gardens, be sure to visit the Witz Castle which nowadays holds the most prominent museums and festivals in town. The castle stables house the National Museum of Brewing, recounting beer production over 6,000 years. In addition to its exhibitions, you'll also find the world's smallest micro-brewery offering insights into the brewing cycle from grain molding, brewing and fermentation. Step inside the castle to discover the Tannery Museum, tracing the towns history in leathermaking from the 1640's. Finally, see the Museum of the Battle of the Bulge founded in 1970. Beginning with the Ardennes Offensive in December 1944, visitors will be reminded of the tragedies felt by the soldiers and town inhabitants through photographs, paintings, documents, and war memorabilia.
