With the scorching temperatures, tourists remain exhilarated as they traverse Saarbrücken's woodland
In the picturesque Geislauterner Wald near Völklingen, Fürstenhausen, and Wehrden, a historic chapel stands tall on a steep hill, a testament to the region's rich history and strong military ties. The Regina Chapel, built in 1950 by former soldiers, is a significant cultural and spiritual site that reflects the intertwined history of faith, memory, and community in the Saarland region.
The chapel, dedicated to the Mother of God Regina, is believed to have been constructed as a thank you to the Virgin Mary. Its name, derived from the Latin word for "queen," likely signifies a religious dedication to the Virgin Mary. The involvement of soldiers suggests the chapel might have been built during or after significant military periods, possibly around the World Wars or during post-war rebuilding.
The Geislauterner Wald, characterised by dense old tree growth, was the location for a recent hike organised by the Turngau Saarbrucken (TGS). Despite the high temperatures, many hiking enthusiasts participated in the event. The hike began at 10 am at the Sebastian Riewer Weiher in Völklingen-Geislautern and mainly took place on wide forest paths and narrow, shady trails. Along the route, there were always well-placed benches with beautiful views, inviting to short breaks and conversations in the shade.
One special destination during the hike was the Regina Chapel. Sylvia Spies from TV Geislautern took over as the hike leader at short notice and led the group to the chapel, built by former soldiers from Völklingen, Fürstenhausen, and Wehrden. The chapel is a symbol of the regional soldiers' faith and communal spirit, serving as a memorial and a historic landmark reflecting the area's strong military ties and local religious traditions.
The hike also included a stop at the Geislautern Memorial, a monument in memory of the fallen of World War I and II. After a rewarding morning of hiking, the group ended their journey at the Weiher in the restaurant La Taverne. In a pleasant atmosphere, the participants reviewed the morning at the end of the hike.
The TGS demonstrated that movement in nature can be possible and enjoyable in high temperatures. The hike, with almost only shade, was a good choice for the hot day. For those interested in learning more about the Regina Chapel's history or seeking detailed archives or specific construction dates, I recommend reaching out to local museums, historical societies in Völklingen or Saarbrücken, or church archives in the region, which often maintain detailed records of such chapels.
The hike, led by Sylvia Spies from TV Geislautern, featured the Regina Chapel as a significant stop, built by former soldiers as a symbol of their faith and communal spirit, embodying the outdoor-living culture of the Saarland region and the home-and-garden atmosphere of the historic chapel. As the Regina Chapel is a reflection of the region's strong military ties and local religious traditions, it serves as a perfect example for those seeking a peaceful escapade within the lush Geislauterner Wald, combining nature, history, and lifestyle in a harmonious blend.
