Lank-Latum

Hidden between Düsseldorf, Krefeld, Duisburg, and Neuss, lies Lank-Latum. This charming district of Meerbusch whispers tales of a rich past. Lank-Latum wasn’t always part of Meerbusch. It has its own unique story to tell. Originally, Lank-Latum was two separate villages, Lank and Latum. They decided to merge in 1910, creating the unified Lank-Latum we know today. This union reflects the close-knit community and shared history of the area. Imagine strolling through Lank-Latum in the Middle Ages. The parish of Lank encompassed several surrounding villages, including Latum, Kierst, and Strümp. The patronage of St. Stephanus Church in Lank suggests early missionary work by the nearby monastery of St. Suitbert in Düsseldorf-Kaiserswerth. Lank-Latum’s history is intertwined with the region’s religious development. The name “Lank” itself is believed to derive from an old Germanic term, perhaps connected to a person named Belsus. “Latum” might refer to a settlement in marshy terrain. The local dialect, “Länkter Platt,” spoken in Lank, differs slightly from the “Lotumer Platt” of Latum. This linguistic nuance adds a layer of local charm. Lank-Latum boasts architectural gems like the Teloy Mill, a windmill built around 1822. The mill ground grain until 1912 and was later restored as a venue for events. The St. Stephanus Church, a three-aisled basilica from the mid-19th century, stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the community. Haus Latum, mentioned in records as early as 1186, originally a water castle, adds a touch of medieval romance to the landscape. The steel-framed water tower, built in 1912, served a celluloid factory, a testament to Lank-Latum’s industrial past. Lank-Latum has been a part of Meerbusch since 1970. There was a brief period in the 1970s where it was almost incorporated into Krefeld, but thankfully, Meerbusch successfully challenged this decision, ensuring Lank-Latum remained within its fold. As you wander through Lank-Latum today, remember the echoes of its vibrant history, the whispers of its unique dialect, and the stories held within its charming streets and historic buildings.