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Sandweiler German War Cemetery
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monument
The Sandweiler German War Cemetery is the final resting place for 10,913 German soldiers who fell during the Battle of the Bulge and the fighting along the Luxembourgish border in the winter of 1944/45. Located just a few kilometers from the American cemetery in Hamm, it gives a somber contrast. The site is characterized by dark granite crosses, often bearing the names of multiple soldiers. A central feature is the large mass grave under a monumental stone cross, where 4,829 fallen soldiers are buried, many of whom remain nameless. The cemetery was inaugurated in 1952 as the first German war cemetery outside Germany after World War II and is maintained by the Volksbund (German War Graves Commission). It serves as a memorial for peace, reminding visitors of the terrible losses on both sides of the front. The quiet setting amidst tall trees invites reflection on the consequences of war and violence.
- Location: Luxembourg
- Top sights: Sainte-Trinité · Plane Spotting003 · Plane Spotting004
- Nearby: Kirchberg Financial District (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 67 | 57 | 57 | 46 | 70 | 68 | 65 | 72 | 56 | 65 | 68 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The German War Cemetery in Sandweiler is open to visitors and set in a park-like landscape. Entrance is free and the grounds are freely accessible. You can walk along the rows of graves and pay your respects.
Typical hours
The cemetery is typically open daily, with usual visiting hours from morning until evening. Daytime visits are recommended to fully appreciate the simple crosses and the landscaped grounds.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the cemetery, but please be respectful. Avoid loud noises and selfies by the graves. Wide-angle shots of the entire layout are particularly striking.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a contemplative walk. The grounds are expansive, and you can pause among the 10,000 crosses. Take time to read the inscriptions on the stone tablets.
Combine with
The cemetery is near Luxembourg Airport and can be combined with a visit to the American Military Cemetery in Hamm. Luxembourg City with its museums is also not far.
Getting there
The cemetery is easily reachable by car via the A1 motorway. Parking is available directly at the entrance. By public transport, take the bus to „Sandweiler, Kierch” stop and walk 10 minutes.
Insider tip
Go early in the morning when there are fewer visitors and the silence is deeper. Pause for a moment at one of the crosses - it creates a personal connection to history.
Geography
Facts
- A total of 10,913 German fallen soldiers are buried in Sandweiler.
- The central mass grave contains the remains of 4,829 soldiers.
- It was the first German war cemetery abroad established after 1945.
- The inauguration took place on May 5, 1952.
- The crosses are made of black syenite stone.
- The site is located in the immediate vicinity of Luxembourg-Findel Airport.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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Sights in the town Sandweiler German War Cemetery (8)
Plane Spotting001
Popular spot for plane spotting, situated close to the runway.
Birelergronn
Nature reserve with forests and meadows, home to rare plants and animals.
École Privée de Théâtre
Private drama school offering acting training and theater workshops.
Chapelle Notre-Dame des Bois
Chapel surrounded by forest in a rural setting.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many soldiers rest at Sandweiler?
Almost 11,000 fallen soldiers of World War II rest in the German war cemetery.
Is the cemetery far from the American cemetery?
No, both cemeteries are located only about 1.5 km apart.
What is the atmosphere of the cemetery?
The dark stone crosses under tall trees create a very reflective and quiet atmosphere.
Can you visit the cemetery at any time?
The grounds are usually freely accessible from sunrise to sunset.
Are there parking spaces nearby?
Yes, there is a free parking lot directly in front of the cemetery entrance.
Sandweiler German War Cemetery: where is it located?
Sandweiler German War Cemetery is located in Luxembourg.
Sandweiler German War Cemetery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sainte-Trinité, Plane Spotting003, Plane Spotting004.
Sandweiler German War Cemetery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Sandweiler German War Cemetery: why is it worth visiting?
The Sandweiler German War Cemetery is the final resting place for 10,913 German soldiers who fell during the Battle of the Bulge and the fighting along the Luxembourgish border in the winter of 1944/45.
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