Surname Hochkirchen - Meaning and Origin
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Hochkirchen: What does the surname Hochkirchen mean?
The last name Hochkirchen is derived from the German language and translates as "high church." This term is used to describe a church that was built on a hilltop or mountain, and thus has a "high" elevation from the surrounding landscape. Churches in Germany were often built on high ground as a means to better spread and receive good spiritual energy. The name Hochkirchen, therefore, alludes to this higher plane of spiritual energy.
The surname Hochkirchen first originated during the Middle Ages, when many German churches were built upon the scenic hilltops. These churches were often known for their grandeur and aesthetic beauty, as their location gave worshippers an unparalleled view of the countryside. This made them architectural marvels and spiritual retreats.
Despite its long history in Germany, the surname Hochkirchen is not commonly seen in other countries outside of Europe. Its meaning has been lost through years of misuse, and thus the meaning of the surname may remain a mystery for quite some time.
That being said, the name still carries considerable symbolism. Not only does it suggest a higher level of spirituality, but it also represents the importance of beautiful architecture, the resilience of religious belief, and the powerful bond between humans and the natural world.
Order DNA origin analysisHochkirchen: Where does the name Hochkirchen come from?
The last name Hochkirchen is most commonly found today in Germany. Despite being a relatively localized name, the family has had a wide reach throughout the centuries. Records show that the name can be traced back to as early as the 16th century. Family members living in the Bavarian Rhine Valley were included on the tax rolls, and modern-day citizens of the valley can still bear the name today.
Also found in Austria and Luxembourg, citizens of the United States now include the name Hochkirchen in their heritage. By way of immigration, the Hochkirchen family has spread throughout the U.S. alongside other Germanic immigrants. Specifically, the name can now most prominently be found in Pennsylvania, Texas, and California.
Though the name has travelled physically out of the valley over hundreds of years, its heritage remains with the area. It still carries a deep connection to the small, local towns of Germany’s Rhine Valley. Origins of the name Hochkirchen suggest that it derived from the Germanic word ‘hoch’, meaning ‘high’, and the familial connection to the local churches of the area.
The family name has a proud history, all across the globe. Whether in its homeland of Germany, or through the adventures of those bearing the name afar, the Hochkirchen legacy continues and continues to be held in high esteem by many.
Variations of the surname Hochkirchen
Hochkirchen is a surname of Germanic origin, which means “high church” in English and is likely related to a person working in a religious capacity. This surname is commonly found in Germany and may also be spelled as Hockkirchen or Hoechkirchen. Variations of this surname can be found around Europe in the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, and Switzerland.
Other variations and similar sounding surnames include: Hoechkirch, Hoeckkirchen, Hockerkirchen, Hockerkircher, Hoecker, Hoexer, Hoekchirch, Hoekchirch, Hoecke, Hockkirchner, Hoeckle, Hoekel and Hoeckle.
Surnames associated with this surname, which may have originated from different places, include: Kochkirch, Koch, Koechkirchen, Koechke, Koekcke, Koeck, Kochkirchner, Kochle, Koekkel, Kochkel, Kochke, Koecklein, Kachel, Koekel, and Koeckle.
Hochkirchen is a common surname and many families have kept this name for many generations. Nevertheless, due to immigration, marriage and intermarriage between people of different cultures and countries, it has adapted to many different spelling variations over time.
Famous people with the name Hochkirchen
- Kurt Hochkirchen (1874-1960), German theologian
- Andreas Hochkirchen (1775-1855), Archbishop of Trier
- Werner Hochkirchen (1931-2004), German business executive
- Lele Hochkirchen (1908-1993), South African professional wrestler
- Bolko Hochkirchen (1905-1984), German World War II fighter pilot
- Otto Hochkirchen (1909-1945), German captain and Waffen-SS officer
- Achim Hochkirchen (born 1962), German journalist
- Wilhelm Hochkirchen (1902-1971), German actor
- Pascale Hochkirchen (born 1964), Belgian astronomer
- Anneliese Hochkirchen (born 1942), German journalist