How many stories could Bergheim tell? Bergheim in Troisdorf is more than just a suburb. It is a place steeped in history and brimming with local charm.
Bergheim’s story stretches back centuries. Its earliest documented mention appears in the 11th century. This is within the founding charters of Siegburg Abbey. The church and its land holdings including the right to collect a tithe are mentioned. Yet, archaeological discoveries hint at even earlier settlement. These suggest the area was inhabited during the Frankish era around 600 AD.
The Fischerei-Bruderschaft zu Bergheim, or Fishery Brotherhood, is over 1015 years old. It is a testament to the village’s enduring connection to fishing. In 1069, the Abbey on Michaelsberg gained the right to collect tolls on ships. These ships travelled the Sieg River near Bergheim.
Around 1330, Bergheim came under the administration of Amt Porz. In 1338, Bergheim gained significance. A high court was established there with jurisdiction over Bergheim, Müllekoven and Mondorf. Around 1400, Bergheim and Müllekoven belonged to Amt Porz. By 1446, Bergheim along with Müllekoven and Spich were part of Amt Löwenburg.
Bergheim’s strategic location at the mouth of the Sieg River where it flows into the Rhine has shaped its past. Situated on a rise, it held military importance. It secured the border of the Duchy of Berg against the Archbishopric of Cologne. Sieg River fords and two Rhine islands provided defense. However, these also presented vulnerable entry points into the Duchy.
The Thirty Years’ War brought occupations, plundering and arson. In 1619, Protestant Dutch and Brandenburg forces built fortifications. These were on the islands facing the Catholic Berg. This structure resembled a priest’s biretta. So it earned the name “Pfaffenmütz”. It only lasted until 1623.
From 1794 to 1797, military strategists focused on the Agger-Sieg Depression. They developed it as a defensive line between Bergheim and Lohmar. French troops breached it in 1795. It then became a French and Austrian defense line. It finally became a demarcation line for the demilitarized zone up to the Wupper River.
In 1808, Bergheim/Müllekoven became part of the Mairie Sieglar. In 1815, it became Prussian. In 1848, Bergheim citizens joined Gottfried Kinkel’s uprising. They stormed the Siegburg armory. In 1910, the Volunteer Fire Brigade was founded. 1914 saw Bergheim connected to the new Siegburg-Sieglar-Zündorf railway.
Bergheim recovered. It became a small farming and fishing village. The Siegauen served as a local recreation area. In 1969, Bergheim became part of Troisdorf. The population has more than doubled since then. Bergheim has grown.
Today, Bergheim offers a blend of old and new. The “Am Krausacker” residential area attracts young families. It contrasts with the older Bergheim’s farming and fishing roots.
The Siegaue is worth seeing. It is a protected area. The Siegmündung is also scenic. During floods, the floodplain transforms into a vast water landscape. In drier times, it becomes a breeding ground for rare birds.
The Fischereimuseum showcases the history of the Fishery Brotherhood. The Parish Church of St. Lambertus stands as a historical landmark.
As you explore Bergheim, notice the traditional timber-framed houses. Many are listed as historic monuments. They add to the town’s unique character. So take a moment to appreciate Bergheim’s rich history and natural beauty. It is a place where the past and present blend seamlessly.