Mörmter Abbey

The monastery's origins date back to the early 20th century when Franciscans from Dorsten planned a settlement in the Lower Rhine region. After the acquisition of the Xanten Carthusian monastery failed due to its high price, local farmers in Mörmter provided land for construction. The foundation stone was laid on July 31, 1921, and by November 1922, the first seven religious members had moved in. Soon after, the Franciscans took on pastoral care duties for the region. A planned expansion with a retreat house was prevented by the economic crisis. During World War II, the monastery was occupied by the Wehrmacht and in February 1945, it served as a hospital for almost 800 wounded soldiers. Approximately 80 of them found their final resting place on the monastery grounds. In March 1945, it was captured by Allied troops.