Grafschafter Spurensuche- On the Trail of the Pilgrims

In 1152, Knight Hugo von Büren founded the Benedictine monastery of Sunte Marienrode, laying the foundation for the present-day Wietmarschen. Later, the Benedictine monastery became a convent until it was converted into a womens collegiate foundation. The monastery and foundation were gradually demolished after the Second World War. Today, only the collegiate church remains. In 1921, Bishop Wilhelm Berning of Münster elevated the former Benedictine monastery to an official place of pilgrimage. To this day, the pilgrimage church is visited annually by thousands of believers to pray before the statue of Our Lady of Wietmarschen. Traditionally on the Sunday before Ascension Day. A small museum in the former monasterys administrative building provides information about the history of the Wietmarschen monastery and foundation. Additionally, visitors can stop by a cafe in the former servants quarters.Note: Follow the green signage!