‘An de Wisen’ Rose;
Credit: Mireille Steil
On Tuesday 27 October 2026, Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn asbl reported on the christening of a special rose bearing the name of the ‘An de Wisen’ senior citizens’ residence, marking the 30th anniversary of the home.
In the presence of Luxembourg’s Minister for Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees Max Hahn, the rose christening took place as part of the anniversary celebrations of the senior citizens’ residence in Bettembourg.
“It is not about giving life more days, but about giving the days more life,” said Minister Hahn, expressing the philosophy of British doctor Cicely Saunders, who is regarded as the founder of the modern hospice movement.
“In everyday life, it is important to find one’s ‘personal moments of happiness’,” the Minister emphasised, who will serve as godfather to the new An de Wisen rose.
“By giving it this name, the rose becomes a reflection of a place where every person is welcomed, supported and valued in all their uniqueness,” said Martin Vissers, the Belgian breeder of the An de Wisen rose, on the occasion of the christening.
Martin Vissers said the rose is exceptional in several respects, with the heart of the climbing rose framed by a violet ring, and its stamens “resembling little eyes turning towards the world – eyes that look, observe, remember and tell stories.”
“In this way, the rose becomes a symbol of treating others with care, respect and humanity. It reminds us that behind every face, every gaze and every story stands a unique individual with their own experiences, memories and inner richness.”
The climbing rose An de Wisen is also what is known as a Persika rose. These modern Persian roses "delight with their charming central eyes and their evocative, oriental appearance," explained Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn.
Thierry Differding, director of the An de Wisen senior citizens’ residence, and Fabienne Schaack, head of the hotel services department, expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn for the special honour of having the new rose named after the residence. The godmother of the rose is Monique Lanners, president of the An de Wisen Amicale.
The rose christening was also attended by Julien Demoulin, Managing Director of Sodexo Luxembourg and Jean-Jacques Schonckert, Avocat à la Cour. The musical programme was provided by violinist and composer Jean-Jacques Mailliet.
Anyone wishing to bring the magic of the Arabian Nights into their garden can order the exotic and hardy An de Wisen rose from the Lëtzebuerger Rousefrënn.
