RheinSieg

Rhein-Sieg-Kreis, often referred to as Rhein-Sieg, is a district (Kreis) in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It lies in the south-eastern part of the state within the Cologne/Bonn Metropolitan Region and surrounds the independent city of Bonn. The district derives its name from the Rhine and Sieg rivers, which flow through and along its borders. The administrative seat is the town of Siegburg.

Geography and composition: The district comprises around twenty municipalities, including the towns of Siegburg (the seat), Sankt Augustin, Troisdorf, Hennef, Bad Honnef, Eitorf, Waldbröl, Neunkirchen-Seelscheid and Much. The Rhine forms part of the western boundary while the Sieg River runs through the area. The landscape combines river valleys, forests and agricultural areas, contributing to a mixed rural and urban character. The Rhein-Sieg region is an integral part of the larger Rhine-Ruhr urban corridor.

History: Rhein-Sieg-Kreis was established in 1969 during municipal reforms in North Rhine-Westphalia, through the merger of several smaller districts and municipalities to form a larger administrative unit. Since its creation, it has served as a district-level authority coordinating regional services and development.

Economy and transport: The district benefits from its proximity to Bonn and Cologne, with a diversified economy that includes services, light manufacturing and logistics. It is served by a dense transport network, with regional rail connections and access to major motorways that connect the area to the Rhine-Ruhr region. The Rhine and Sieg rivers also influence local tourism and water management.

Administration and governance: The district is governed by a Landrat (district administrator) and a district council. It participates in the Cologne/Bonn Metropolitan Region and collaborates with neighboring districts and municipalities on planning, education, and infrastructure initiatives.