History of Rostock in Timeline

Rostock is the largest city in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, with approximately 210,000 residents. Situated on the Baltic coast, it holds the distinction of being the third-largest German Baltic city after Kiel and Lübeck. Historically, Rostock was a vital port city, particularly during the era of East Germany. Officially named the Hanseatic and University City of Rostock, it underscores its historical significance as a member of the Hanseatic League and its academic heritage.

1900: New Quarters Development

Around 1900, new quarters were developed in the south and west of Rostock to house the increasing population.

1925: Mayor Title

Since 1925, the head of the city has borne the title of Mayor.

1932: Nazi Popularity Increase

In the summer of 1932, the Nazi party garnered 40.3 percent of the vote in Rostock during elections, exceeding their national showing of 37.3 percent.

1935: Population reaches over 100,000

In 1935, Rostock reached a population of over 100,000 residents.

1935: Population Increase

In 1935, Rostock's population reached 100,000 due to rearmament by the Nazi regime and the boosted industrial importance.

November 1938: Kristallnacht Synagogue Destruction

On 10 November 1938, during Kristallnacht, the synagogue on Augustenstrasse in Rostock was destroyed by arson, and numerous Jews were beaten and imprisoned.

1939: Population Growth

By 1939, the city's population grew to 121,192 due to the increased employment at the Heinkel and Arado factories, and at the Neptunwerft shipyard.

1942: Air-raid destruction

In 1942, The historical houses in Hanseatic style that once bordered the square were destroyed in an Allied air-raid.

May 1945: Capture by Soviet Forces

In May 1945, specifically on May 2nd, Rostock was captured by the Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front during the Stettin-Rostock offensive operation.

1960: Demolition of Jakobikirche Ruins

In 1960, the ruins of the Jakobikirche (St Jacob's Church), which had been heavily damaged during World War II, were pulled down.

1988: Historical peak of population

In 1988, Rostock reached its historical peak in population, with approximately 254,000 residents.

1990: Loss of privileged position

In 1990, following the reunification of Germany, Rostock lost its privileged position as the No. 1 port of the GDR, and the city's population declined.

August 1992: Rostock-Lichtenhagen Riots

In August 1992, Rostock was the site of the xenophobic Rostock-Lichtenhagen riots, during which asylum seekers were attacked by right-wing extremists.