Werl's historic city center is bordered by the Graben streets running here. In the pedestrian zone stands the pilgrimage basilica with the image of the Virgin Mary from the 13th century. For over 350 years it has been the destination of the Marian pilgrimage with over 100,000 pilgrims annually. The mighty green sandstone tower with a baroque dome is part of the 14th century provost church with important furnishings. The municipal museum Haus Rykenberg houses a collection of the town and salt history, the Forum der Völker presents over 10,000 international exhibits.