Shortly afterwards, a civil settlement was founded at the site of latter day Neuss. It soon became a flourishing centre of trade – a position, that Neuss has managed to maintain until today.
At the beginning of the 12th century, the city erected its first fortifications for defence – with great foresight of the turbulent history to come. At the end of the 19th century following the expansion of the harbour, Neuss experienced a flourishing industrial upswing.
Today, Neuss is a modern city with over 154,000 inhabitants, a booming economy and an eloquent witness of an eventful past.
Chronology:
16 B.C.A Roman legionary camp is founded at the mouth of the river Erft located on the most important Roman route from Cologne to Xanten.First centuryThe first civil settlement "Novaesium" is founded at the city's present centre forming an important place for craftsmen and traders.1050The relics of the Roman tribune and martyr St. Quirinus are brought from Rome to Neuss.1021First mention of Neuss as a trading centre.12th centuryFirst fortification in Neuss. Agriculture, grain, cattle and wine trade foster economic development.1209The cornerstone for the church of St. Quirinus is laid by Magister Wolbero. Neuss develops into an important site for pilgrimage in the Rhineland.1475Neuss is unsuccessfully besieged by Charles the Bold. In recognition of the successful defence, the city is granted Hanseatic rights, prerogative of coinage, the right to bear the Golden Imperial eagle in the coat of arms, along with other rights by Emperor Frederick III.1586More than two thirds of the city is destroyed in a big fire.1741Fire at the church of St. Quirinus. It is reconstructed with cupola and statue of Saint Quirinus.1794 – 1814Neuss under French rule. French revolutionary ideas demanding "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" reach the Rhineland. Many cloisters and church institutions are secularised.1815 – 1946Neuss is passed to the Kingdom/Country of Prussia.1835Harbour expansion1850Neuss has around 9,000 inhabitants1881Industrial upswing with the founding of numerous companies. Expansion of the city's boundaries.1888 – 1900Systematic excavations of the first Roman fort.1950Neuss has 64,000 inhabitants1963Neuss reaches the figure of 100,000 inhabitants.1975Communal reorganisation and increase in the number of inhabitants to 150,000.1976 till todayThe city is systematically developed into a major economical and service centre for the region. Continual expansion of the infrastructure.
