Germany: Rostock II. – Maritime Atmosphere of an Old Harbor

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A lot of buyers and traders headed to Rostock in the past. Their steps led from the inland through the stone city gate of Steintor to the Hanseatic harbor. Now we are coming here as well. The medieval Gothic gate was destroyed in 1565 and its present-day Renaissance style renovation dates back to 1574-1577. A part of the original city fortification has been preserved on the right side.

Steintor is only steps away from the Neuer Markt and continues on the lively street of Lange Straße, which connects this square with the Kröpeliner-Tor suburb. In the past, it was the longest street in Rostock, from the original street with old buildings after World War II, but apart from a few houses, almost nothing remained. The road you may see here today is three times larger than the original one. Following the example of old Gothic brick houses, modern buildings were built in the 20th century. There are also interesting fountains. One of them is Menschen am Wasser - People on the Water (made of sandstone reliefs with marine themes).

From this boulevard we turn into an old port district typical for its architecture. The historic medieval alley Wokrenterstraße leads us to the old town harbor. Among the preserved buildings here is the so-called Hausbaumhaus. Late Gothic house with interesting brick facade (1490) is the oldest preserved example of a Hansa-era department store. Today it is a place where exhibitions and cultural events take place. Close to this building is the original Hornscher Hof (1600), which has been dilapidated for years, but fortunately it was recently repaired.

We head to Wokrenterstraße to its and. On its corner, close to the port, there is another original sturcture. It is home to an impressive historic restaurant. Already in 1856 there was the Stadt Hamburg restaurant, whose name changed several times. Today's restaurant is called Zur KOGGE. Tourists find particularly its maritime atmosphere alluring.

More than a hundred years ago, sailors spent their leisure time here. We can't resist so we enter this amazing world. It was certainly worth it, not only because of the good beer that refreshed us during the journey, but especially for its decoration. From every side, the sea breeze breathes us through the local desing - sea hedgehogs, raccoons, and other seafarers have taken our attention. Boat models, ship bells, and rescue bicycles all add to the atmosphere of former business trips.

Maritime tunes continue on the way to the city port. On the waterfront you will immediately find a technical monument, the replica of the Haedgehafen wooden pedal crane (1780). The crane until the Industrial Revolution served for loading and unloading ships in the harbor.

Rostock is a popular tourist destination, so museums and many cultural events can not be missed directly in the harbor. A unique experience can be a visit to an event in the former yard. The unique Werfthalle 207 space offers an unforgettable atmosphere.

Hanse Sail Rostock is one of the most famous and popular events in the city. This probably the largest show of hundreds of historic ships from around the world will attract thousands of tourists to the Baltic coast. During these Navy celebrations, there must be a number of fish specialties and a rich accompanying program. If you are going to be here in early August, at the time of this celebration, you have to take into account that you will find it difficult to get here.

Even today, you can see a number of ships in the harbor. There are private boats, local and suburban shipping, and beautiful yachts that make up the coastline.

This place, which was the center of international trade in the Middle Ages, has been a coastal promenade since 1991. Here you can enjoy the sunset or visit some of the cozy cafes, pubs or restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish.

GPS: 54°05'33.7"N 12°08'23.0"E

Text and photos: Mgr. Anna Nociarová

Edited by: infoglobe