St. Dionysius

St. Dionysius is a Gothic parish church that stands on the northern edge of Rheine's marketplace, perched on a limestone spur above the Ems River bank. The building displays characteristic pointed arches and houses an extensive collection of liturgical items and artworks from various periods spanning centuries.

Construction began around 1400 and continued for approximately 120 years, while documentary evidence points to a stone predecessor existing since 838. This extended building period reveals how the community invested across generations in creating this important structure.

The church served as the religious center of Rheine for centuries and shaped daily life in the community. Its position near the marketplace made it a natural gathering point for important local events and celebrations.

The Word of God Chapel, converted from the old sacristy in 2016, displays liturgical objects and artworks that visitors can view. The elevated position above the Ems River helps with orientation when navigating through the old town area.

The church tower holds five bells, including three medieval ones, each bearing inscriptions that tell stories from different periods. These bells serve as silent witnesses to the long history of this place.

Location: Rheine

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Email: stdionysius-rheine@bistum-muenster.de

Website: https://dionysius-rheine.de

GPS coordinates: 52.27940,7.43817

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:40