Vianden, Pilsen Mark Cooperation Anniversary at Vianden Chalet

On Friday 25 September 2026, the Municipality of Vianden inaugurated the Ourblick Mountain Chalet at the upper station of the Vianden chairlift, while also celebrating the first anniversary of its cooperation agreement with the Czech city of Pilsen.

Before the official ceremony, around 30 guests took the chairlift to reach the chalet. The event then continued on the viewing platform next to the chalet, overlooking Vianden.

Among those present were Luxembourg's Minister for Culture and Minister Delegate for Tourism Eric Thill, Czech Ambassador to Luxembourg Barbara Karpetová, Vianden Mayor François Weyrich, Vianden aldermen Pol Petry and Henri Majerus, as well as Pilsen Deputy Mayor for Education and Tourism Lucie Kantorová, and other members of the Czech delegation.

The ceremony began with a performance by a “Haupeschbléiser” (St Hubert Hunting Horn Players of Luxembourg), which provided musical interludes throughout the official programme.

The cooperation between Vianden and Pilsen was highlighted through its three main areas: history and culture; exchanges involving schools and young people; and tourism.

Speakers recalled the historical ties between Vianden and Pilsen, particularly their shared connection to the United States (US) Army during the Second World War. Pilsen was liberated by General George S Patton's US Third Army in May 1945, while Vianden was also liberated by US forces. The two towns formally signed a cooperation agreement in September 2025, focusing on culture, education and tourism.

The event also featured the Luxembourg and Czech national anthems and speeches from representatives of both towns. Czech Ambassador Karpetová addressed those present, while Minister Thill welcomed the Czech delegation and highlighted cooperation between the two countries.

The event also marked the introduction of Pilsner Urquell on draught at the chalet, described by Vianden representatives as the only location in Luxembourg currently serving the Czech beer on tap.

The ceremony concluded with a symbolic ribbon-cutting using a ribbon in the colours of the Luxembourg flag.

Speaking with Chronicle.lu, Ambassador Karpetová said the cooperation could expand to include schools, cultural events and exchanges of local products. She highlighted Czech visual arts, glassmaking and design as potential areas for future collaboration and noted plans for an upcoming Christmas exhibition at Vianden Castle.

She also praised Vianden's efforts to attract visitors, noting that smaller towns need a continued "injection of energy and ideas" to maintain their appeal.

Photo Caption: Czech Ambassador to Luxembourg Barbara Karpetová

Photo Credit: Elza Osmane, Chronicle.lu