Aurich's mysterious origins: Where does the city really come from?

Aurich's mysterious origins: Where does the city really come from?

Anyone who is interested in the history of Aurich will quickly realize that its origins are a mystery. At first glance it seems as if the story is hidden in a shadow play. There is no founding document that could provide information about the exact beginnings of the city. Nevertheless, there are numerous discussions about the possible anniversaries for a city's founding celebration. Dr. Heiko Suhr, the head of the State Library of the East Frisian Landscape, puts it in a nutshell: “Aurich’s origins remain obscure to history.” , reports NWZonline.

Archaeological finds from the 12th century indicate that places like Walle, Wallinghausen and Sandhorst were already important back then. The first references to Kirchdorf can also be found, where there are signs from the year 900. An exciting theory states that a large farm on the upper reaches of the river “A” formed the nucleus of Aurich. The name “Aurich” was first mentioned in a document in 1153 in a report about the Östringen Feud. Before that, the residents were referred to as “moor people,” which is also a fascinating glimpse into the past.

A rich legacy of power transitions

Aurich's city history is strongly influenced by the East Frisian chiefs. Until the middle of the 15th century, these were regents and led the city through constant ups and downs caused by power struggles. In the late Middle Ages, under the rule of Ocko I tom Brok and later the Cirksena, Aurich's rise began. Particularly exciting: From 1438, the Cirksena's center of power was in what is now the city, where they had a new moated castle built, which was eventually converted into Aurich Castle , according to the information from Wikipedia.

Aurich soon developed into an important cattle market and from 1561 became the residence of the East Frisian counts and princes. Of course there were also dark times: in 1514 the city was almost completely destroyed by fire during the Saxon Feud. However, reconstruction began quickly, under the leadership of Count Edzard I, who granted town charter in 1539. Historians agree: Aurich was already a city de jure before 1539 , as the city of Aurich explains.

The present and the coming anniversaries

Today Aurich is a vibrant city with more than 40,000 inhabitants and a clear focus on the future. The city is becoming a major center for wind turbine manufacturers and is proud of its history. Significant anniversaries are coming up: While the Commercial Association is planning the 750th anniversary in 2026 on the occasion of the mention in the Brokmer letter, thinks Dr. Suhr is planning an official city anniversary on the 500th anniversary of the mayor's constitution in 2039 and a big festival in 2041, which is to be celebrated 550 years after the presumed granting of city rights.

The history of Aurich stretches over many centuries, marked by changeable events and important figures. To find out more about the facets of this city, it is worth taking a look at the developments that have shaped Aurich from its roots to the modern day.