Werl Pilgrimage Churches

The Werl Pilgrimage Churches, known locally as Alte Wallfahrtskirche, stand as a testament to the rich religious history and architectural splendor of Werl, a charming town in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. These churches are more than just places of worship; they are a journey through time, offering a glimpse into centuries of devotion, artistry, and community spirit.

The History of Werl Pilgrimage Churches

The story of the Werl Pilgrimage Churches begins in the mid-17th century when the pilgrimage to the miraculous image of Mary began around 1661. The original church, a Capuchin monastery church built in 1662, soon became dilapidated and was subsequently demolished. The plans for this predecessor were drawn up by Brother Bonitus from Trier.

In its place, from 1786 to 1789, the current Alte Wallfahrtskirche was constructed under the guidance of master builder Franz Arnold Matthias Boner. This new church is a plastered hall with five bays, closing in a five-sided manner. Its ceiling, composed of groin vaults, rests on wall pillars with flat projections and robustly profiled fighters. The original furnishings, dating back to the 18th century, add a touch of historical authenticity to the church. The building was further expanded in 1861 with the addition of the eastern bay and choir, which also saw the inclusion or transformation of the stepped buttresses. The curvilinear west gable is adorned with a high round-arched window and a niche housing a statue of Mary sculpted by Joseph Wäscher.

Despite these expansions, the church soon proved too small for the growing number of pilgrims. This led to the construction of the adjacent Wallfahrtsbasilika Mariä Heimsuchung, further enhancing the spiritual and architectural landscape of Werl.

Architectural Marvels

The architectural design of the Werl Pilgrimage Churches is both captivating and intricate. The church's interior is a harmonious blend of historical and artistic elements. The groin vaults, supported by sturdy wall pillars, create a sense of grandeur and stability. Each architectural feature, from the profiled fighters to the flat projections, speaks of meticulous craftsmanship and a deep reverence for religious architecture.

The polygonal roof turret is another distinctive feature, adding a touch of elegance to the church’s silhouette. The west gable, with its sweeping curves and high round-arched window, is a visual delight. The niche in the gable, housing the statue of Mary, serves as a focal point, drawing the eyes of visitors and worshippers alike.

Artistic Treasures

Inside the Werl Pilgrimage Churches, visitors are treated to a feast of artistic treasures. The altars, adorned with figures carved by the artist Bruno Vinazer from St. Ulrich in South Tyrol, are a testament to the skill and devotion of the craftsmen of the time. These figures, created in 1982/83, add a touch of modern artistry to the historical setting.

The altarpiece, also created in 1982, is another highlight, offering a visual narrative that complements the church’s spiritual ambiance. The organ, built by the Gebrüder Stockmann organ-building company, is a marvel of musical engineering. Originally constructed in 2000 for St. Hedwig in Unna-Massen, the organ was relocated to the Alte Wallfahrtskirche in 2016. With 18 registers on two manuals and a pedalboard, the organ combines mechanical key action and electric stop action, producing a rich and resonant sound that fills the church during services and concerts.

The Bells of Werl

The bells housed in the church’s roof turret are another fascinating aspect of the Werl Pilgrimage Churches. Cast in 1860 by the bell foundry Heinrich Humpert from Brilon, the bell with the strike tone g is a historical artifact in its own right. Another bell, cast in 1679 by Johann Delapaix from Arnsberg, with the strike tone as, adds to the church’s historical and acoustic charm. These bells have rung out over the town of Werl for centuries, marking the passage of time and calling the faithful to prayer.

A Place of Pilgrimage and Reflection

The Werl Pilgrimage Churches are more than just architectural and artistic marvels; they are places of pilgrimage and reflection. The journey to these churches is a spiritual experience, drawing pilgrims from near and far. The miraculous image of Mary, which inspired the original pilgrimage, continues to be a focal point of devotion and reverence.

Visitors to the Werl Pilgrimage Churches are invited to explore the rich history and architectural beauty of these sacred spaces. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Werl Pilgrimage Churches offer a unique and enriching experience. As you walk through the halls of these historic churches, you are not just witnessing the past; you are becoming a part of a living tradition that has inspired and uplifted generations.

In conclusion, the Werl Pilgrimage Churches stand as a beacon of faith, artistry, and history in the heart of Nordrhein-Westfalen. Their walls echo with the prayers and hymns of centuries, offering a sanctuary of peace and inspiration for all who visit. Whether you are drawn by the architectural beauty, the artistic treasures, or the spiritual ambiance, a visit to the Werl Pilgrimage Churches is a journey into the heart and soul of a community that has cherished and preserved its heritage with unwavering devotion.