Witch burning is a tradition that is local to Saeul and Saeul alone in Luxembourg. The custom, which dates back to the 1980s, symbolises a farewell to carnival and is unique to the village in its current form.
Laurent Rausch explains that the idea was inspired by the tradition in Remich, where a straw effigy is burned every year on Ash Wednesday. According to local lore, the witch burning in Saeul originated after a dispute with a landlady who was jokingly referred to as the village witch.
For many years, the event was organised by the local youth club. This year, however, another village association stepped in to ensure the tradition continued – including both the witch burning and the Buergbrennen. Rausch, who serves as president of the club, said declining volunteer engagement has affected several local organisations in recent years.
Although the association is primarily dedicated to motorsport, members say their motivation for maintaining the tradition lies in their love for their hometown. Their commitment once again has allowed residents from Saeul and the surrounding area to gather and celebrate the occasion together.
