Raitz von Frentz

Raitz von Frentz is the name of a baronial (freiherrlichen) family, that belongs to the German ancient nobility (Uradel).

The Raitz von Frentz is one of the oldest patrician and noble (Rittergeschlechtern) families of the free imperial city of Cologne (Reichsstadt Köln).

A member of the family Raitz (Razo) was first mentioned in a document as witness of the Archbishop Wichfrid of Cologne in the year 948.

In 1635 the branch "Raitz von Frentz zu Kendenich und Stolberg", was created hereditary Baron of the Holy Roman Empire (Reichsfreiherrenstand).

A daughter of a married male member of the family is called Freiin (Baroness) Raitz von Frentz.

The oldest preserved seal with the cross coat of arms dates from 20 January 1289 of "Theodericus dictus Raitze miles, civis Colon" and his sons.

The coat of arms of the Raitz von Frentz was changed in each case on the occasion of the elevation of two lines into the rank of Barons of the Holy Roman Empire.