Werl is the largest Marian pilgrimage site in the Archdiocese of Paderborn and is one of Europe’s most well-known pilgrimage destinations.
The pilgrimage basilica, with its miraculous image of the Virgin Mary, is a destination for numerous pilgrims. The Neo-Romanesque church was built between 1904 and 1906, as the neighboring monastery church had become too small for the growing number of pilgrims. With its striking towers, spacious forecourt featuring arcades, and grand staircase, the church is a defining landmark of the town, visible far beyond the city limits. The basilica was built from local green sandstone. Inside, the church impresses with its simplicity and clarity. The destination for all pilgrims and the faithful is the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary known as the “Comforter of the Afflicted.” This image dates back to the 12th century and was formerly venerated in Soest at the Wiesenkirche. In 1661, the statue finally arrived in Werl, where the Marian pilgrimage continues to attract around 100,000 pilgrims to this day. In 1953, the Vatican elevated the church to the status of a “Papal Basilica.” Pilgrims have left their “marks” on and inside the church. For example, on the forecourt beneath the arcades, there are artistically designed plaques commemorating anniversaries of pilgrimage groups, some of which have been making the journey to Werl for centuries. To this day, it is a tradition for pilgrimage groups to carry large, artistically designed candles to Werl. These, too, can be found in the display case containing the votive offerings. The basilica’s colorful windows are particularly worth seeing. Next to the basilica, the idyllic Way of the Cross square invites visitors to relax, reflect, and meditate. (www.entdeckedeinwerl.de)
