Ralbitz-Rosenthal: Pilgrimages, churches and Sorbian customs

Pilgrimages in Rosenthal, Sorbian customs and hiking trails offer different ways to experience Ralbitz-Rosenthal. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first consider whether churches and pilgrimage history, a cultural event or outdoor activities should be the focus of your trip.

Pilgrimages and churches

Rosenthal is a Marian pilgrimage site with several pilgrimages each year. At its center is a devotional figure carved from linden wood, dating from around 1480. The healing properties of the Marian Fountain have traditionally been recognized. Rosenthal is also a member of an association of Central European pilgrimage centers.

The large pilgrimage church of Maria von der Linde is distinguished by its tall tower and curved tower roof. Both make it a striking landmark, visible even from a distance. In 1752, the parish church ad St. Catharinam was built in Ralbitz; in 1754, Ralbitz became an independent parish. The cemetery in Ralbitz is known for its white wooden crosses. Outdoor services are held at the Sühnungskapelle on special occasions.

If you are planning your trip around a pilgrimage or procession, check the relevant date in advance. The annual pilgrimages and religious sites are a distinct focus, alongside hiking and cultural activities.

Sorbian customs

Zampern is a traditional Lusatian custom in which people collect donations for the carnival celebration. How participation is organized may vary. The Easter Riders procession starts in Ralbitz and passes through Cunnewitz, Schönau, Sollschwitz and Saalau on its way to Wittichenau. It takes place annually at Easter; details of the route may change. If the procession is the reason for your trip, confirm the current dates and route information before making plans.

Hiking in Rosenthal

The Rosenthal Circular Trail is 7.7 kilometers long, is considered easy and is marked with a green dot. There is a picnic area at Steinteich. You can watch amphibians and birds there, although sightings are not guaranteed. There are no places to eat along the route, so the district recommends bringing a picnic. Dreihäuser is also on the route and is known as the birthplace of Sorbian writer Jurij Brězan.

A visitor article published on July 3, 2025, presented five easy hiking routes through the local forests, meadows and fields. As route options may change, check the latest information before setting out. The 7.7-kilometer circular trail provides specific details on distance, difficulty and trail markings, while the five featured routes offer a broader overview of the hiking options.

Tour 3 by bike

Tour 3 passes through Ralbitz, Cunnewitz, Schönau and Rosenthal. It can also be done by bicycle, although you must walk your bike along a short, uneven stretch of forest trail. Surface conditions may vary. Tour 3 connects to the KRABAT Cycle Route and the Sorbian Impressions Cycle Route.

Comparing the two route options can help with planning: the Rosenthal Circular Trail has a stated length, difficulty level and trail marking. Tour 3 is described in terms of the places it passes through, its connections to two cycle routes and the short stretch where you must walk your bike. No route length or circular-route designation is given for Tour 3 here.

Bienenhof Regina

Bienenhof Regina has maintained a beekeeping tradition for more than eighty years. The farm offers visits to an educational trail, including a guided tour and tasting, by prior booking. As booking conditions may change, check them before your visit. This lets you plan a visit as a specific activity without confusing it with the hiking trails described as freely accessible.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Bretnig-Hauswalde, Wilthen, Steina, Arnsdorf, Löbau, Lohsa, Obergurig, Neukirch/Lausitz

Back to the main travel overview: Bautzen District.