Mondorf

Where the Sieg River embraces the Rhine, lies Mondorf, a charming suburb of Niederkassel. Mondorf’s story begins in 795. It was first mentioned as “Munnendorf,” meaning “mouth village.” This refers to its location at the mouth of the Sieg River. Imagine the early settlers, drawn to this strategic point where the two rivers meet. They built their lives intertwined with the ebb and flow of the waters. Mondorf’s history is also tied to a ferry connection with Graurheindorf, a tradition spanning over 1200 years. From medieval river crossings to the modern car ferry, the Rhine has always been a vital artery for Mondorf. At the heart of Mondorf stands St. Laurentius Church. Its history reflects the trials and resilience of the community. The current church building has a fascinating layered history. A church was mentioned here as early as the late 13th century. The Thirty Years’ War took its toll, leaving the church heavily damaged. In 1666, a new church arose with a massive west tower that still stands today. The church continued to evolve. In 1896, a three-aisled brick structure replaced the old nave. Later, in 1965, a transept and a small windowless apse were added, shaping the church we see today. Mondorf was once known for its basket weavers. In the early 20th century, the Mondorf Basket Weaving Cooperative supported this vital trade. Imagine the rhythmic clatter of weaving tools, the skilled hands shaping reeds into intricate baskets. This craft was a cornerstone of Mondorf’s economy. Mondorf also holds a poignant reminder of its Jewish community. A Jewish cemetery and the remnants of a synagogue tell a story of both presence and loss. The synagogue, built in 1860, was destroyed during the Kristallnacht pogroms in 1938. Today, the Lux-Werft shipyard continues to operate in Mondorf, a testament to the enduring spirit of this riverside community. Mondorf, with its rich history, remains a vibrant place where the rivers, the ferry, and the church stand as witnesses to the passage of time.