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Old map of Goch, visible in the Steintor's gate
From beguinage to convent to hospital to ... etc.
Goch's clockwork decorates the market square
Walkingbridge that brings you to green tranquilityThe historical review of Goch
In Roman times there was already a small village here that got the name "Gochum". This village became a regional centre and received in 1261 cityrights from the local duke Otto II. The town however was always in conflict area, which conciderably disturbed it's growth. When in the 15th century Goch stil belonged to Gelderland (The Netherlands) it was "given" to Kleve later and in 1614 became a part of the Brandenburg territory. Between 1620 and 1815 it became even worse. Then and again the Dutch, French and Spanjards were masters of Goch. Finally it went into the Pruisian empire, which became Germany.
The town thrived on the wool industry in 13th and 14th century. that however was completely down around 1700. Then a short period of leather and iron industry brought economical stability, but then again ... never ofa more then just important role in the region. Connection to the railroad brought some relieve, but also the line that was running along Goch, was never a main rail. Goch now counts just over 30.000 inhabitants and is with that number a small, but quite nice town.
