“How did two villages become one neighborhood?” This question lingers as we stand here in Roggendorf/Thenhoven. These villages now form a unique part of Cologne. Roggendorf/Thenhoven is the second largest Cologne district by area. Yet it’s one of the smallest in population.
Let’s delve into the history of Roggendorf/Thenhoven. The area retains its rural charm. Many farms still operate here. The Pletschbach stream flows through the district. It adds to the idyllic setting.
Thenhoven’s history possibly traces back to 948. A record mentions Stift Thiedinhove then. Roggendorf appears in documents from the 14th century. The name Roggendorf may come from the Old High German word “rocko”. Rocko means rye. Another theory links it to the personal name Hrocco or Rocco.
Old maps show the evolution of Roggendorf/Thenhoven. In 1663, only Rockendorff appears on Joan Blaeu’s map. By the early 19th century, both Roggendorf and Thenhoven are present. These maps depict them along the Bletschbach stream. Roggendorf was a street village on Sinnersdorfer Straße. Thenhoven sat along Berrischstraße.
Until 1794, both villages belonged to the Worringen dominion. This was part of the Lower Electoral Cologne Archbishopric. By 1922, the villages had grown together. They officially became part of Cologne. Still, they were too small to be separate districts.
In 1975, Roggendorf and Thenhoven merged. This created the single district we know today. Local resistance prevented it from being named only Thenhoven. Residents wanted to honor both villages. An older resident told the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger in 2018 about it.
Today, Roggendorf/Thenhoven boasts landmarks. St. Johann Baptist Church was built in 1866 and 1867. Schloss Arff, dating back to 1750-1755, also stands here. There is also a golf course. The Chorbusch forest borders the district. The Sinti settlement at Pletschbach is another important part of the district.
Roggendorf/Thenhoven is a vibrant community. It has many clubs and organizations. These include music and sports clubs. The Schützenbruderschaft St. Johann Baptist is the city’s largest shooting club. Roggendorf/Thenhoven connects to Cologne via bus lines and the S-Bahn.
Roggendorf/Thenhoven remains a unique blend of past and present. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents. The district retains its village character. It also embraces its place within the larger city of Cologne. As we leave Roggendorf/Thenhoven, remember its journey. From two distinct villages to a unified and charming neighborhood.