MainKinzigKreis

Main-Kinzig-Kreis is a rural district (Landkreis) in the eastern part of the German state of Hesse. The administrative seat is the town of Hanau. The district’s name emphasizes its geographic connection to the Main and Kinzig rivers, which run through or near parts of the area. It is part of the Rhine-Main metropolitan region and lies to the east of Frankfurt am Main.

Geography and economy

The district covers a varied landscape along the Main and Kinzig valleys, combining towns and rural areas. It benefits from its proximity to Frankfurt, contributing to a diversified economy that includes services, small and medium-sized enterprises, and logistics. The location supports a strong linkage to the broader Rhine-Mine region and its transport networks.

Administrative structure

Main-Kinzig-Kreis comprises numerous towns and municipalities, with Hanau serving as the district’s capital. Notable communities include Maintal, Gelnhausen, Schlüchtern, Langenselbold and Bad Soden-Salmünster, among others. The district administers local services, planning, and regional development for its constituent municipalities.

History

The district was established in the 1970s during Hessian local government reform, created to streamline administration and regional planning in the area surrounding Frankfurt.

Transport and demographics

The district is well connected by road and rail, providing links to the Frankfurt area and other parts of Hesse. It has a population consisting of urbanized municipalities and surrounding communities, reflecting a mix of commuter residential zones and local economic centers.