France 3 on the Scene
Der französische Fernsehsender FRANCE 3 entdeckt das europäische Modellprojekt „Sternenweg/Chemin des étoiles auf einer besonderen grenzüberschreitenden Wegetappe
Setting Europe on Its Path: On the “Starry Path” along the Upper Saar
One stage, two countries, and a deep connection to centuries-old architectural heritage: The section of the European model project “Starry Path/
From the “Path of Change” to Hospitality in Action
The journey begins at the Wintringer Chapel cultural site near Kleinblittersdorf. This late-Gothic gem, once the choir of a larger priory church, now serves as a visionary space where medieval roots intersect with contemporary art installations and ecological discourse.
Following the meditative “Path of Transformation,” the route leads to picturesque Auersmacher and the “Altes Bauernhaus” pilgrim hostel. Here, the 18th-century building—a designated historic landmark—opens its doors. It serves as both a local history museum and an official pilgrim hostel—a place where traditional rural culture remains alive.
Hidden Gems Along the Way
On the historic Kappelberg, nestled among the rolling hills of the Bliesgau Biosphere Reserve, the Kuchlinger Chapel stands as an almost forgotten sanctuary. It invites hikers to take a quiet break off the beaten path.
After crossing the border seamlessly, the scenery changes. In Saargemünd, the rural idyll gives way to urban history. In addition to the town’s famous ceramics tradition, medieval buildings in the old town bear witness to the former strategic importance of the river that once marked the border between Saxony and Lorraine.
The medieval fortified town of Hombourg-Haut serves as the spectacular finale to this stage. Perched on a steep rocky outcrop are the imposing Saint-Étienne Collegiate Church (13th century) and the ruins of the old castle. They transport pilgrims back to the era of the Dukes of Lorraine and bring to a close a route that impressively demonstrates how architecture has transcended borders over the centuries.
France 3 has featured these topics in a short film that has been very well received. Project manager Peter Michael Lupp and his French partners convey the European vision behind the pilot project.
