Churches, monasteries, and chapels form a structure typical of the Münsterland region, which has developed over centuries and continues to play a significant role today. Even the current administrative boundaries are largely based on ecclesiastical districts, foundations, and institutions. Since the early Middle Ages, these have spread across the land like a network. Archaeological studies demonstrate how stable the local connections of the churches remain to this day. One construction phase builds upon another, and each leaves its mark on the external design and internal furnishings. In addition to the parish churches in the nearly 130 rural communities of the Upper Diocese of Münster that existed until 1800, there are places of worship in the small towns. Monasteries and convents, belonging to various religious communities and orders, are established both here and there. Popular destinations include pilgrimage churches and chapels.