Rhein-Erft District

Rhein-Erft District is an administrative division in Cologne Government Region, stretching from the outskirts of a major city westward toward rolling hills. The Erft river flows through the entire area from south to north, shaping the landscape with its wide floodplains and several lakes.

The administrative unit formed in 1975 through the merger of two smaller districts and received its present name in 2003. Parts of the territory once belonged to the domains of Jülich and Cologne.

The district's coat of arms displays the lion of Jülich and the Cologne cross, representing the historical territories that shaped this administrative region.

Bergheim serves as the administrative seat, where the district office is located. Ten towns and municipalities, including Brühl, Kerpen, Hürth and Frechen, together form the district.

Bleibtreusee lake lies within the district and serves as a recreation area between suburban neighborhoods and rural villages. Many visitors use the lake for walks and outings without leaving the densely populated area.

Location: Cologne Government Region

Inception: January 1, 1975

Capital city: Bergheim

Elevation above the sea: 79 m

Shares border with: Düren district, Euskirchen, Rhein-Sieg District, Cologne, Rhein-Kreis Neuss

Website: https://rhein-erft-kreis.de

GPS coordinates: 50.92000,6.67000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:08