Peace and Soldiers' Pilgrimage Vierzehnheiligen

Vierzehnheiligen — A Pilgrimage Site of European Importance

The Basilica Vierzehnheiligen near Bad Staffelstein in the Lichtenfels district is one of Bavaria's most important pilgrimage churches. Built by Balthasar Neumann (1743–1772), it is one of Central Europe's outstanding Rococo buildings and is dedicated to the Fourteen Holy Helpers. For centuries, the basilica on the "Holy Mountain" above the Main valley has been a destination for pilgrims from Franconia and all of Southern Germany.

The Soldiers' Pilgrimage Since 1957

• Origin 1957: Initiated by returning war veterans as a thank you for their return, the pilgrimage today serves as a living reminder for the present and future.
• Date: 1st Sunday in May: The pilgrimage has taken place every year on the first Sunday in May for decades.
• Organizers: Co-organizers are the Franciscan Monastery Vierzehnheiligen, the Reservist Association (especially the Upper Franconia-West District Group), and soldiers' comradeships from all over Franconia.
• Program: Procession of flag escorts to the basilica, festive church service, prayer for peace, laying of wreaths at the soldiers' monument, three cannon shots in honor of the fallen.
• Focus 2026: Against the backdrop of the Ukraine situation, the themes of peace, responsibility, and social cohesion are brought to the forefront.

Federal State and Cultural Context

Bavaria, Upper Franconia administrative region, Lichtenfels district. Vierzehnheiligen is not only a pilgrimage site but also one of Franconia's postcard motifs — the basilica high above the Main valley with Kloster Banz on the other side of the valley is considered the "Holy Valley." The Soldiers' Pilgrimage brings hundreds of pilgrims here every year.