Rostock

Rostock is a city in northern Germany, the largest city in the federal state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, located on the estuary of the Warnow River near the Baltic Sea. With a population of about 210,000, it is a major port city and the traditional economic and cultural center of the region.

Historically, Rostock grew as a medieval trading town and became a member of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century. It received town rights in the early 13th century. The University of Rostock, founded in 1419, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and remains a major center of research and teaching.

Rostock's port area, Rostock Port and the coastal district of Warnemünde, handles container traffic, bulk goods and passenger ferries across the Baltic. Warnemünde is also known for its long sandy beach, the lighthouse and the historic Teepott building, which are popular with visitors.

Key sights in the city include the brick Gothic Town Hall and the Marienkirche (St. Mary's Church) with its astronomical clock, as well as the market square and the Kröpeliner Strasse shopping street. The city has a vibrant university culture, a growing biotechnology sector, and serves as a gateway for tourism along the Baltic coast.

Public transport includes Rostock Hauptbahnhof as the central railway hub and a network that connects the city with Warnemünde. The football club Hansa Rostock is one of the city’s notable sports teams.