Julian Geißler

Solving WordPress Sitemap Issues with The SEO Framework and Polylang

Table of Contents

Intro

Managing a multilingual WordPress site can be challenging, especially when it comes to SEO. In this post, I will show you I how to fixed a sitemap issue when using The SEO Framework with Polylang

Understanding the Problem

The Initial Setup

Initially, my website was entirely in German, and I used The SEO Framework to manage SEO settings. However, when I decided to add an English version using Polylang, I saw a sitemap issue through Ahrefs tracking my Page.

The Sitemap Dilemma

The robots.txt showed a new entry for the english language. But it pointed to nothing and resulted into a 404 error

The Solution

Discovering the Correct Sitemap

I found that The SEO Framework automatically generates a sitemap for the English version at https://juliangeissler.de/sitemap.xml?lang=en. 
Thanks The SEO Framework 😀

Implementing a Redirect

To fix the problem, I installed a redirect plugin. This allowed me to redirect requests from /en/sitemap.xml to the correct URL: /sitemap.xml?lang=en.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Verify Your Sitemaps on robots.txt

When installing e.g. Polylang to add multilanguage to your WordPress page check the robots.txt that all sitemap links generate an expected sitemap.xml file

Step 2: Try other steps

I found this documentation of The SEO Framework but it didnt help me.

Step 3: If nothing helps install a Redirect Plugin

If the issue is still there like for me, install a redirect plugin like Redirection

Step 4: Set Up the Redirect

Configure the plugin to redirect /en/sitemap.xml to /sitemap.xml?lang=en. This ensures that search engines and users are directed to the correct sitemap.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively manage sitemaps for a multilingual WordPress site using The SEO Framework and Polylang. This not only resolves potential SEO issues but also enhances the overall user experience. Also make sure that you add both sitemaps to your Google Search Console.
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Best Julian
Portrait Julian Geißler

About me

Serving clients worldwide

Based in the technology region between Frankfurt, Darmstadt, Mannheim, and Worms, I provide professional web development and software development primarily remotely for clients worldwide. When needed, I’m also available for important meetings in person in the Rhine-Main region.

Julian Geißler - Programmer

With over 5 years of experience and a Master’s degree in Computer Science, I offer technical expertise and direct communication. My focus is on scalable solutions using Next.js, React, Laravel, and Django, complemented by AI integration and technical SEO. From conception through development to hosting, I guide your project with tailored solutions and a clear understanding of your business requirements

My region in Hesse: Frankfurt, Darmstadt, Mannheim, and Worms

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E-Mail: julian@juliangeissler.de

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