WarnemĂ¼nde church in brick Gothic style

Rostock brick Gothic

A holiday on the Baltic Sea inevitably leads you into the world of historical architecture, shaped by old monasteries, churches, town houses and other impressive buildings. One of the most striking features that will immediately catch your eye is the bright red stones used in these structures. These distinctive bricks are a living testimony to the region's rich history and its role in the Hanseatic period.

You will come across these impressive relics from bygone times, particularly along the Baltic Sea coast, but also in the small villages and towns inland. These structures, which come from the so-called brick era are not only architectural masterpieces, but also tell the stories of the people and cultures that have shaped this region over the centuries.

Many of these historic buildings are still there today perfectly preserved and offer a fascinating insight in the architecture and cultural heritage of the Baltic Sea region. Each of these buildings is a Unique and testifies to the craftsmanship and artistic expression of the time

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church, one of a total of three brick churches in Rostock, stands as a shining example of North German brick Gothic. Its foundations were laid in 13. century laid by committed citizens of the city who initiated the construction of this impressive church. Since then, St. Mary's Church has witnessed numerous historical events in the city. Including the founding of the university in the year 1419, a milestone in the history of Rostock.

The church has served not only as a spiritual center over the centuries, but also as a witness and participant in important urban events. Their robust construction means that they are... second World War remained steadfast despite all attacks. Today St. Mary's Church is the best preserved of all Rostock's churches, a true symbol of strength and stability.

St. Marien Church Rostock surrounded by blue sky and trees
The St. Mary's Church in Rostock is definitely worth a visit. | © shutterstock

A special highlight of St. Mary's Church is its astronomical clock, a masterpiece of watchmaking art, the 1472 was specially made for this church. This clock, which is still wound by hand every day, is not only a fascinating technical work of art, but also a testament to the advanced science and technology of its time.

Arrival from the hotel: approx. 25 minutes.

Monastery of the Holy Cross

That in 13. century The Holy Cross Monastery, founded by the Danish Queen Margarethe, is one of the most important historical sites in the city of Rostock. It is the only fully preserved tasting complex in the city and is therefore a testimony to past architecture and history. Unique at this monastery is his Location within the former city walls from Rostock. This peculiarity contrasts with the common practice at the time of building monasteries in remote, quiet places rather than in the turmoil of urban environments. 

Entrance gate of the monastery to the Holy Cross Rostock
Monastery of the Holy Cross in Rostock. | © shutterstock

today are home to the impressive monastery buildings cultural history museum of the city, which offers visitors a deep insight into Rostock's rich history and culture. Since 2002, the Holy Cross Monastery has also been the home of the Kempowski Archives, which represents another facet of the city's cultural heritage.

Arrival from the hotel: approx. 30 minutes.

The gabled houses and Rostock ramparts

A walk through the city center of Rostock is like a journey into the past. Here you will come across numerous well-preserved gabled houses from the brick era that still tell the history of the city today. These architectural gems include striking buildings like this Rostock town hall and the library, one of the oldest town houses in the city. These impressive buildings, once home to rich merchants, now stand as proud witnesses to Rostock's flourishing trading past.

Gabled houses on the Neuer Markt in Rostock
Many gabled houses can be seen on the Neuer Markt in Rostock. They are among the city's landmarks. | © unsplash

The historic ramparts, which have served as the city's protective walls since the 13th century, cannot be overlooked. Although they remain in a fragmentary state today, they tell a story of security and defense. They are particularly worth seeing Remains of the once 30 kilometer long brick wall, which you can admire, for example, at the Kuhtor in Rostock's old town. These remains of the wall provide a fascinating insight into the medieval fortress architecture and the strategic importance of Rostock in times past.

Cover photo | © shutterstock