© Marc Hoscheid
After years of delays and disputes over the future of a sixth-century mansion unearthed in Echternach, the municipality and the Ministry of Culture are nearing a compromise on how to proceed with the "Petite Marquise" redevelopment project.
The demolition of the "Petite Marquise" building in Echternach began six years ago, but since 2020, the project has been at a standstill.
Work was halted after the discovery of a sixth-century mansion on the site, now under preservation. In the years since, disputes have arisen between the municipality and the Ministry of Culture over how to integrate the historic remains into the redevelopment plan. A compromise now appears to be in sight.
The municipality envisions a mixed-use development for the site, including residential flats, restaurants, a tourist information centre, and a multimedia exhibit to showcase the ancient ruins. In contrast, the Ministry of Culture favours creating a museum rather than a multimedia show. However, the municipality is concerned about the staffing requirements for a museum. According to Echternach Mayor Carole Hartmann, a compromise has been reached.
Hartmann explained that the next step is to launch a call for project proposals. Working with architects and archaeologists, the municipality plans to draft a preliminary outline. Both options–multimedia show and museum–will be considered, allowing the municipality, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, to decide which direction to take.
In the past, the municipality sought €5 million in compensation from the Ministry of Culture. Mayor Hartmann noted that discussions are ongoing and expressed optimism that a solution could be reached soon.
The municipality has also introduced a new concept for the planned flats. Mayor Hartmann explained that they are considering the construction of "unique lodgings" on the site, which could serve as both residential units and a tourist attraction. The municipality reaffirmed its intention to include a tourist information centre in the development.
Whether social housing will be incorporated into the project remains unclear, as it was not part of the original plan. The call for project proposals is expected to take over a year to complete. According to Hartmann, estimating the total project cost is challenging at this stage, but it is expected to be at least €14 million.
