Step Back in Time: Discover Blieskastel's Noble History with Countess Marianne

Blieskastel, Germany - In the picturesque town of Blieskastel, history is coming alive as the community gears up for a unique event on July 6, 2025. Local visitors are invited to step back into the late 18th century, right before the tumultuous French Revolution, through an engaging stroll led by none other than Countess Marianne von der Leyen herself. As detailed by Saarbrücker Zeitung, the meeting point for this historical escapade will be at the Rathaus on Paradeplatz. For a modest fee of five euros (three euros for those with a Kurkarte), participants will embark on a journey that brings to light the everyday regal life of the Countess, her three children, and the magnificent castle perched on the hill in Blieskastel.

The heart of this exploration revolves around Countess Marianne’s two-decade reign, characterized by her commitment to the „landesmütterliche Obsorge,“ which focused on the well-being and improved living conditions of the townsfolk. Attendees will hear enchanting anecdotes about her life, the challenges of maintaining public cleanliness, and details regarding the construction progress of the Klosterkirche, which reflects the ongoing developmental spirit since the residence was moved from Koblenz to Blieskastel in 1773.

Rich Historical Tapestry

Blieskastel, nestled in the scenic Bliesgau Biosphere Reserve in Saarland, serves not just as a backdrop but as a character in itself. It’s a town steeped in history, recognized for its unique blend of culture and heritage. The noble family von der Leyen, who originally hails from the Moselle area, left an indelible mark here, with Blieskastel serving at various times as their residence, most notably from 1773 to 1793. According to Homburg1, the Countess fled the town in 1793 amid the chaos brought on by the French Revolutionary troops, never to return. The plight of her son, Philipp, after he was granted the title of prince by Napoleon, illustrates the intertwined fate of the family with the historical events that shaped Europe.

Despite facing challenging times, including the annexation of Blieskastel to Bavaria post-Congress of Vienna and the family’s eventual relocation to Waal, their legacy continues to resonate. Currently upheld by Prince Philipp and Princess Elisabeth, the family maintains connections to their historical roots in Blieskastel. Celebrations commemorating 200 years of the von der Leyen family’s presence in Waal nearly took place in 2020 but were postponed due to the pandemic. Instead, a publication titled „200 Jahre (1820 – 2020) Fürsten von der Leyen in Waal“ was released, available for purchase at the local Tourist Information for just €2.50.

Exploring Blieskastel’s Cultural Richness

Visitors to Blieskastel will find a wealth of historical treasures. The town is not only characterized by its rich aristocratic past but also adorned with numerous cultural points of interest, making it an attractive spot for history and nature enthusiasts alike. Blieskastel is home to several renowned attractions such as the historic city center, the Hercules Fountain, and the Gollenstein menhir. Furthermore, it boasts 133 individual monuments, underscored by a distinctive heritage that makes it a proud member of the SaarPfalz Baroque Route.

The community spirit runs deep in Blieskastel, with the annual events like the Countess’s stroll helping preserve and promote local history, while fostering a sense of pride among residents. As locals and visitors alike prepare for this delightful journey through time, it’s evident that there’s much to discover in this charming corner of Saarland, where the past graciously intersects with the present.