A stroll along the Luegallee in Oberkassel takes you past a grand building; this is the seat of the Bezirksverwaltung. It’s not just an office; it’s a hub of the Stadtbezirk 4. This district, nestled on the western bank of the Rhine, holds a rich history. It was once a village called Heerdt, mentioned in documents as far back as the 9th century. The Rhine, a natural barrier, meant Heerdt looked west to the countryside, not east to Dusseldorf. For centuries, the two remained separate. However, in the 17th century, everything changed. Jan Wellem, the Elector Palatine, erected Fort Dusselburg on Oberkassel’s shores as a defense against invaders. This marked the beginning of Dusseldorf’s expansion across the Rhine to incorporate the region. The fort itself no longer stands, but its legacy lives on. Today, Stadtbezirk 4 boasts a mix of historic charm and modern life. You’ll find grand Gründerzeit architecture in Oberkassel, charming single-family homes in Lörrick, and bustling industry in Heerdt. The district’s allure is its unique mix, offering a vibrant cultural mix, with the Japanese International School and the EKO House showcasing a Japanese cultural center with a temple. The area also offers numerous green spaces and picturesque views of the Rhine, attracting joggers, cyclists, and families looking for a tranquil escape. It’s a district where historical whispers blend seamlessly with the modern rhythm of life.
Landesrat Dr. M. Brandts Plaque
“Seinem verehrten Mitbegründer dem tatkräftigen Mitbegründer Herr Landesrat Dr. M. Brandts gest. 16. Oktober 1905 in Dankbarkeit gewidmet.” This is