Credit: © Patrick Schanen
On Saturday 28 June 2025, the "Europa Donna" rose was unveiled in the gardens of the Château de Munsbach, in the presence of Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, Luxembourg's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture, Martine Hansen, the Minister of Health and Social Security, Martine Deprez, and the Mayor of Schuttrange, Claude Marson.
The result of a collaboration between Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn, Kordes Rosen, and Europa Donna Luxembourg, this rose embodies more than a horticultural success: it is said to carry a message of solidarity, courage and hope.
As explained by Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn and Europa Donna, the idea of creating a rose bearing the name "Europa Donna" was born from Europa Donna Luxembourg's desire to bring to life, both literally and figuratively, a powerful symbol for those affected by breast cancer. This large-scale project, which is finally coming to fruition in 2025 after several years of work, was initiated by the association through a partnership with the Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn asbl.
Welcomed by rose enthusiasts, the initiative led to the careful selection of a "remarkable" variety, reportedly chosen for its vigour, resistance and lasting beauty.
Presented by Kordes Rosen CEO Alexander Kordes and breeder Thomas Proll, the rose was unveiled to the public by the presidents of the two partner organisations: Maryse Weirig-Hensel (Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn) and Mariette Fischbach (Europa Donna Luxembourg). It was then formally named by its patron, the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, who delivered a short speech.
Maryse Weirig-Hensel stated: "Each of us knows at least one person affected by breast cancer. That's why it was important for us to support this major project and the work of Europa Donna. The name Europa Donna is associated with commitment, courage and solidarity. This rose will be an ambassador for the fight against breast cancer, for good medical care, and above all, for hope."
Mariette Fischbach commented: "This rose symbolises solidarity with all those affected by breast cancer - mostly women. The pink ribbon, the international emblem of this fight, echoes this. The long journey between the creation of this rose and its naming reflects resilience, hope and perseverance in the face of the disease. I wish to express my deep gratitude to Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn and Kordes Rosen for their availability and invaluable support."
According to the partner organisations, naming a rose "Europa Donna" is not just about naming a flower; it is about inscribing a powerful message in nature: one of gentleness combined with strength, of beauty as a testament to commitment and of hope that blooms despite adversity.
The Europa Donna rose pays tribute to everyone who is facing breast cancer with courage, dignity and determination.
On Saturday, 150 rose bushes were sold on-site (€30 each) to benefit Europa Donna Luxembourg. It will also be possible to place orders later via rousefrenn.lu.
