In 1223, the Franciscans began to build this monastery complex. After the Reformation, St. Katharinenstift first served as a poorhouse, later also as an orphanage, penitentiary and military hospital.
Today, the St. Katharinenstift houses the Rostock University of Music and Theatre (hmt). Founded in 1994, the hmt Rostock is one of the most popular training centres for artistic professions in Europe and attracts students from all over the world to the Hanseatic city. It offers 30 degree programmes and trains students in the subjects of music, drama, music teaching and theatre teaching as well as musical science. Currently, 500 students from almost 40 nations are enrolled.
With over 300 public concerts and theatre performances per year, the university enriches the cultural life of Rostock and the region. Its building in the eastern part of the old town is also a special attraction. Since 2001 it has been based in the St. Katharinenstift. After its restoration it offers exceptionally beautiful premises with its cloisters, a large concert and theatre hall with a full stage, an organ hall and chamber music hall, sound studios and library.
YouTube video: Young life meets historical flair
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Photos: Rostock University of Music and Theatre, hmt Rostock/Thomas Häntzschel
