MonasteryWerne

Kapuzinerkloster

Kapuzinerkloster

Historic monument

The Capuchin Monastery of Werne, a historic structure in North Rhine-Westphalia, is a significant architectural monument with a long and eventful history as a spiritual center.

History+

The monastery's origins date back to 1659, when three Capuchin friars settled in Werne to strengthen the Catholic religion in the region after the Thirty Years' War. Between 1671 and 1680, they constructed the monastery and its accompanying church, dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, outside the city walls. The Capuchins lived according to the rules of Saint Francis of Assisi and were deeply committed to helping the needy population, earning them great sympathy. During the plague epidemics of the 17th and 18th centuries, the friars took on the care of the sick, with a special plague house used for isolation. Following the Imperial Deputation Act, the monastery became state property in 1803, and its official dissolution occurred in 1834. The buildings were subsequently used for various schools, but the friars were permitted to continue residing there. Thanks to Anton Erdmann's efforts, monastic life was resumed in 1851. Even during the Kulturkampf, when closure was threatened, the support of the local population and Ferdinand Graf von Meerfeld helped maintain the Capuchin presence at the monastery. This made the Capuchin Monastery of Werne one of the few that remained continuously inhabited. From 1887, it served as an educational institution for monastic students, and from 1978 to 1999, as a novitiate house.

Location+

The Capuchin Monastery of Werne is situated in the town of Werne in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is located at an elevation of approximately 67 meters above sea level.

On site+

The former Capuchin Monastery is now protected as a historical monument in North Rhine-Westphalia, bearing witness to its long history and significance in the region.

Nearby+
  • Haus Reck (Castle, approx. 5590 m away)
  • Schloss Cappenberg (Castle, approx. 6864 m away)
  • Schloss Velmede (Weddinghofen) (Castle, approx. 7682 m away)
  • Marienstift (Monastery, approx. 7765 m away)

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