Krefeld history

The history of Krefeld has its roots in the time of the Roman Empire, when the first settlements were founded on the left bank of the Rhine. However, the first official written mention of the city under the name Krinvelde dates back to 1105. The early history of the city is closely linked to Linn Castle (Burg Linn), which remains one of its main attractions today.

Key development factors:

The defining factor in Krefeld's development was its economic specialisation. From the 17th century, the city transformed into a centre for the production of silk and velvet. This was facilitated by the policy of religious tolerance pursued by the rulers of the House of Orange, who owned the city. Mennonite refugees, who possessed unique weaving skills, flocked to Krefeld. It was they who laid the foundation for future prosperity, turning the city into the so-called "City of Velvet and Silk". The transition to Prussian rule in the early 18th century ensured stability and opened up new markets.

Early cultural and economic features:

The economy of early Krefeld was almost entirely focused on textile manufacturing. Locally produced fabrics—brocade, velvet, and silk—were in huge demand among the European aristocracy and clergy. The wealth brought by the fabric trade was reflected in the city's architecture: luxurious villas and homes were built for the "silk barons". The cultural influence of the Mennonite community was also significant. As a sign of respect for the main craft, a statue of a weaver with a roll of fabric was erected in one of the city's squares, which has survived to this day.

Key Dates in the History of Krefeld

Krefeld's journey from a modest medieval settlement to the "City of Silk and Velvet" is marked by many vibrant events. Every historical turn—from gaining city rights to industrial revolutions—has left its mark on the architecture and character of the city. Let us trace the key moments that shaped the appearance of Krefeld today.

• 1105 — The first written mention of a settlement named Krinvelde is found in documents of that time, marking the beginning of its documented history.
• 1373 — Emperor Charles IV grants Krefeld city status. This event provided it with important market privileges and contributed to its further growth.
• 1683 — Thirteen Mennonite families from Krefeld depart for North America, where they found the settlement of Germantown. This act is considered the starting point for German emigration to the New World.
• 1702 — After the death of William III of Orange, the city passes into the possession of the Kingdom of Prussia, ensuring political stability and giving new impetus to economic development.
• 1758 — During the Seven Years' War, the famous Battle of Krefeld takes place near the city walls, in which Prussian troops defeat the French army.
• 1794 — Krefeld is occupied by French revolutionary troops and remains under French rule until 1814. This period had a noticeable influence on the city's legal and administrative system.
• 1828 — Introduction of the first Jacquard looms. This became a technological breakthrough for the textile industry, allowing for the mechanised production of fabrics with complex patterns.
• 1849 — The opening of a railway line connecting Krefeld with Cologne integrates the city into the region's growing industrial and transport network.
• 1906 — Construction of the river port on the Rhine is completed, significantly strengthening Krefeld's economic position as an important trade and logistics centre.
• 1929 — A merger occurs between Krefeld and the neighbouring town of Uerdingen, and the city's name is officially changed from Crefeld to Krefeld.
• 1943 — During World War II, the city is subjected to massive bombing raids, resulting in the destruction of a significant part of its historical centre.
• 1949 — Krefeld becomes part of the newly formed Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and begins an active process of post-war reconstruction and modernisation.

Major Milestones in Krefeld's Development

The history of Krefeld is a journey from a small settlement to a thriving industrial centre, whose destiny is inextricably linked with the production of velvet and silk. The key stages of its development reflect the transformation of the economy, culture, and urban landscape.

• Rise of the "City of Velvet and Silk" (17th–18th centuries): The arrival of religious Mennonite refugees, who possessed advanced weaving techniques, was a turning point. They laid the foundation of the textile industry, which determined Krefeld's economic prosperity for centuries. The fabrics produced here—silk, velvet, and brocade—were in demand at royal courts throughout Europe.
• Industrial Revolution (19th century): The introduction of mechanical looms, particularly Jacquard machines from 1828, took production to a new level. Manual labour was gradually replaced by factory work, leading to a sharp increase in production volumes and strengthening Krefeld's status as a leading textile centre in Germany.
• Development of the Transport Network (1849–1906): The construction of a railway line connecting the city to Cologne in 1849, and later to other industrial areas, became a powerful stimulus for the economy. The opening of the river port on the Rhine in 1906 provided access to international trade routes, strengthening the city's position as a vital logistics hub.
• Merger with Uerdingen (1929): The administrative union with the neighbouring town of Uerdingen significantly expanded Krefeld's territory and industrial potential. A powerful chemical industry was added to the traditional textile sector, diversifying the city's economy.
• Post-War Reconstruction and Economic Diversification (post-1945): After significant destruction in World War II, Krefeld was actively rebuilt. This period marked a gradual move away from total dependence on textiles. New industries began to develop: mechanical engineering, the food industry, and the production of high-tech equipment, shaping the modern economic profile of the city.
• Architectural and Cultural Heritage: The wealth accumulated by the "silk barons" was reflected in the architecture. Luxurious villas were built in the city, such as Haus Lange and Haus Esters, designed by the famous architect Mies van der Rohe. Important cultural institutions were also founded, including the German Textile Museum, which houses unique fabric samples from around the world.

The Architectural Look of Krefeld: From the Middle Ages to Bauhaus

The architecture of Krefeld represents a fascinating journey through the centuries, where each style reflects key stages of the city's development. From a medieval castle to masterpieces of modernism, Krefeld's buildings tell the story of its transformation from a modest settlement into a thriving industrial and cultural centre.

Middle Ages and Renaissance: Burg Linn

The historical heart of the city is Burg Linn (Linn Castle), a well-preserved medieval water fortress. This structure, founded back in the 12th century, represents a typical example of defensive architecture of that time. Around the castle, a historical district of the same name formed with half-timbered houses, allowing one to imagine what the settlement looked like during the Middle Ages and the early Renaissance.

Baroque and Classicism: The Splendour of the "Silk Barons"

In the 17th and 18th centuries, with the flourishing of silk and velvet production, Krefeld gained wealth that was reflected in its architecture. This period left a legacy of elegant townhouses and villas. Characteristic features can be seen in the historical district of Uerdingen, where Baroque buildings have been preserved. In Krefeld itself, entire quarters appeared in the strict and harmonious style of Classicism, built for the wealthy textile industrialists.

Gründerzeit Era: Industrial Boom

The second half of the 19th century, known in Germany as the Gründerzeit (Founders' Period), brought industrialisation and rapid city growth. During this time, numerous public buildings, factories, and multi-storey residential buildings were erected in the style of Historicism, combining elements of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Baroque. A striking example of the architecture of that period is the Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) building, which has survived to this day.

Modernism: Icons of the Bauhaus Style

Krefeld holds a special place on the world architectural map thanks to two iconic Bauhaus structures. In 1928–1930, the world-renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed two residential houses here for local industrialists — Haus Lange and Haus Esters. These brick villas are textbook examples of Functionalism, where strict geometry of forms, flat roofs, and thoughtful interaction with the surrounding landscape create a single harmonious space. Today, both buildings function as museums of contemporary art, attracting architecture connoisseurs from all over the world.

Post-War Reconstruction and Modernity

A significant part of Krefeld's historical centre was destroyed during World War II. Post-war reconstruction in the 1950s and 1960s shaped the new look of the city. The architecture of this period is distinguished by the simplicity and functionality characteristic of post-war Germany. These modern buildings, constructed on the site of ruins, create a contrast with the miraculously surviving historical monuments, visually demonstrating the complex history of Krefeld in the 20th century.

Outstanding Personalities of Krefeld

Krefeld, known as the "City of Silk and Velvet", has been the birthplace or place of activity for many prominent individuals who have left a significant mark on world history, art, and industry. Here are some of them:

• The von der Leyen Family (17th–19th centuries)

  A dynasty of industrialists and "silk barons" whose name is inextricably linked with the economic rise of Krefeld. Starting with the production of silk fabrics in the 17th century, they turned the city into one of the main textile centres of Europe. Their influence and wealth shaped not only the economy but also the architectural appearance of the city.

• Abraham Isacks op den Graeff (1611–1697)

  One of the leaders of the "Krefeld Thirteen"—a group of thirteen Mennonite families who left the city in 1683 and travelled to North America. There, they founded the settlement of Germantown, initiating the first mass German emigration to the New World.

• Thierry Hermès (1801–1878)

  The founder of the world-renowned French fashion house Hermès. Born in Krefeld into an innkeeper's family, he later moved to Paris, where in 1837 he opened a workshop for the production of high-quality horse harnesses. His name became synonymous with luxury and unsurpassed craftsmanship.

• Heinrich Band (1821–1860)

  A musician and inventor credited with creating the musical instrument known as the bandoneon. By improving the German concertina, he gave the instrument his name. The bandoneon became the heart of tango orchestras and gained worldwide fame thanks to Argentine tango.

• Heinrich Campendonk (1889–1957)

  An outstanding expressionist painter and a member of the famous Munich group "The Blue Rider" alongside Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc. Born in Krefeld, he became one of the bright representatives of the German avant-garde, known for his stained glass and woodworks.

• Joseph Beuys (1921–1986)

  One of the most influential and controversial artists of the second half of the 20th century, and a theorist of postmodernism. Beuys was born in Krefeld, and through his work, which included performances, sculptures, and installations, he significantly expanded the boundaries of contemporary art.

• Ralf Hütter (born 1946)

  Musician, composer, and co-founder of the legendary electronic group Kraftwerk. Born in Krefeld, Hütter became one of the pioneers of electronic music, whose work has had a tremendous influence on the development of genres such as synth-pop, hip-hop, and techno.

• Jannis Niewöhner (born 1992)

  A contemporary German actor born in Krefeld. Despite his young age, he has already starred in numerous successful films and series, receiving critical acclaim and several prestigious awards, and is one of the most recognisable faces of the new generation in German cinema.