Soest (district)
The Kreis Soest is a Kreis (district) in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is located in the Regierungsbezirk Arnsberg.
Geography
The district is situated in the southern part of Westphalia and is largely characterized by the fertile plains of the Soester Börde in the north and the hilly landscapes of the Sauerland in the south. The Ruhr river flows through the southern part of the district.
History
The district was created in 1975 as part of an administrative reorganization. It merged the former districts of Soest and Lippstadt, as well as parts of the districts of Arnsberg and Beckum. The city of Soest has a rich history as a member of the Hanseatic League in the Middle Ages.
Coat of Arms
The coat of arms shows:
- Top left: The checkered bar, derived from the County of Mark.
- Top right: The black key, symbol of the Prince-Archbishopric of Cologne.
- Bottom: A golden lily, taken from the city arms of Soest, representing the Soester Börde.
Cities and Municipalities
The district consists of 14 municipalities, of which 7 are cities:
- Anröchte
- Bad Sassendorf
- Ense
- Erwitte (city)
- Geseke (city)
- Lippetal
- Lippstadt (city)
- Möhnesee
- Rüthen (city)
- Soest (city)
- Warstein (city)
- Welver
- Werl (city)
- Wickede (Ruhr)
Economy
The economy of the Kreis Soest is diverse, with a mix of agriculture, industry, and services. The Soester Börde is known for its fertile soil and agricultural production. Industry is concentrated in the larger cities, particularly Lippstadt and Soest. Tourism also plays a role, particularly in the areas near the Möhnesee lake.
Politics
The district council (Kreistag) is the main political body of the Kreis Soest. The Landrat (district administrator) is the head of the district administration.