Bridge Saint John of Nepomuk - Procession Path

The hiking trail is part of the traditional Rietberg Nepomuk procession. Johannes Nepomuk, who bears the nickname "Bridge Saint," is revered as the patron saint of confessors and priests, sailors, raftsmen, and millers. The earliest evidence of the Rietberg procession dates back to the year 1726.
Heading down Rathausstraße towards the South Gate, passing by the Ribérac Fountain, a symbol of the German-French partnership between Rietberg and Ribérac in southwestern France.
The path continues along the Johannesweg, where seven wayside shrines depicting the life and death of St. Johannes Nepomuk are erected - a globally unique representation - leading you to the Johannes Chapel and the statue of Johannes Nepomuk.
The return journey to the starting point follows along the Ems River; an observation tower offers you a magnificent view over the former fish ponds on the opposite bank - a nature reserve and part of the European bird sanctuary, home to a diverse bird population.
Further along, the trail leads through the monastery garden, where you can view and study the sculptures by the artist Dr. Wilfried Koch.
Within the historic city center, we recommend a visit to the monastery church, the local heritage house, the parish church, and their respective surroundings.