Over time, the Moravian Brethren faced continued persecution and religious oppression, leading them to seek refuge in various parts of Europe. In the 18th century, a group of Moravians led by Count Nikolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf established a settlement in Herrnhut, Germany, which became a center for their community. From there, Moravian missionaries spread to various parts of the world, including the Americas, Europe, and Africa, where they founded new settlements and communities.