The old town of Rostock with its many historic buildings and half-timbered houses. These are just a few examples of what you can experience in Rostock. Rostock is an Age-old Hanseatic city that was an important trading center in the Middle Ages. It was granted city rights in the 13th century. Over the centuries, the City has had different rulers and experienced different political and economic phases. Rostock was badly damaged in the Second World War, but after the war the city was rebuilt and developed into a modern city. The purchasing power in Rostock is in the midfield compared to other German cities.