Herzogenrath

The Romans already knew and used Nivelstein sandstone, which has had a decisive influence on the history of today's Merkstein district of Alt-Herzogenrath. The small village of Nivelstein existed here from the Middle Ages onwards and was first mentioned in documents in 1117. Even then, the village belonged to the municipality of Merkstein. Over time, it became known beyond the borders of Germany for its sandstone quarries and sand works:

As early as the beginning of the 13th century, the village was mentioned as a quarry in the Annales Rodenses. There is also evidence that the neighbouring village was built as a fortress by the owners of Rimburg Castle, the Lords of Mulrepas. The sandstone from Nivelstein was used most significantly in the construction of Aachen Cathedral, the city walls of Aachen and the Ponttor gate. Nivelstein sandstone was also used in other churches, including those in Maastricht and Gulpen, as well as Utrecht Cathedral.

In the early 20th century, Nivelstein quartz sand was in demand for another reason: the porcelain and glass industry was flourishing, so manufacturers in the cities of Maastricht and Limburg needed more sand for their products. During industrialisation, the Herzogenrath and Stolberg glassworks were established near the quarries.