Gdansk, located in northern Poland, is a city that thrives thanks to its connection to the sea. In Gdansk, you’ll see a giant medieval harbor crane, a monument to fallen shipyard workers, and lots of amber, which, of course, washes up on the beaches of Gdansk. Enjoy a panorama of this Polish city from the top of the Church of St. Mary, pass through the famous gates of Gdansk and also visit some of its best museums.
Port crane
After passing through the Green Gate at the end of Long Street, you will find yourself on the bank of the Motlawa River. The view from the bridge gives you your first impression of life on the banks of the Gdansk river, but the medieval harbor crane immediately catches your eye. Looming over the water, this structure is a testament to Gdansk’s historical relationship with the sea. The crane was built in 1444, making it the oldest crane in Europe. If you walk under the crane, you can see its inner workings with its huge rope and gears.
Banks of the Motlawa River
Walk along the banks of the Motlawa River to find charming seafood restaurants, amber and crystal vendors, nautical shops, floating cafes, the maritime museum, and historic sea-going vessels.
High Gate o Upland Gate
Called the High Gate or the Highland Gate, this silver-gray brick facade marks the beginning of the so-called Royal Route of Gdansk, through which the king would pass on his visits to the city. This 16th century gate was originally a part of Gdansk’s defensive system, but now it stands as an isolated structure. The bricks are unusual in that they have a leaf-shaped pattern, and up high you’ll see the ridges of Gdansk, Poland, and Prussia.
Long street
Long Street is called ‘Dluga’ on Polish-language maps, and this is where you will see most of the sights of the main city of Gdansk. Long Street is the cultural and historical heart of Main Town, where you will find many museums, architectural works, cafes, shops, and photo opportunities.
Main town hall and history museum
The main town hall can be seen from any walk along Long Street, as well as from the tower of St. Mary’s Church. Gdansk’s reconstructed medieval town hall is now a history museum. Visit to gain insight into Gdansk’s long and interesting history through exhibits that include weapons, art, and historical artifacts.
Church of Santa Maria
St. Mary’s Church is the largest brick church in the world, and a climb to the roof offers unparalleled panoramas of Gdansk. However, before climbing the more than 400 stairs to reach the upper tower, take a moment to enjoy the cool atmosphere inside the church. Here you’ll see relics from the past, including a wooden pieta, a 500-year-old astronomical clock, and a 3-D triptych of the Last Judgment.
Royal Chapel of Santa María
The Royal Chapel of the Church of Saint Mary was built by King Jan III Sobieski in the Baroque style. Its sherbert-colored face with ivory columns stands out in striking contrast to the dark brick of the church itself.
Monument to Fallen Shipyard Workers
The northern edge of Gdansk’s Old Town is known to have made history as recently as the last century. The Gdansk Shipyards, formerly the Lenin Shipyards, were the site of a workers uprising. Solidarnosc, or Solidarity, was the name chosen for the union formed by shipyard workers in Gdansk during the 1970s, which eventually gained government recognition despite severe persecution from its members. The workers’ struggle is commemorated with a gigantic monument, as well as smaller plaques placed around the courtyard outside the shipyard gates.
Big mill
The Great Mill is now a commercial center, but from 1350 to 1945, this mill was the largest working medieval mill in Europe. If you venture inside the Great Mill, you will be able to see items found during excavations at the site. In its original form, the structure served as a flour mill, barn, and bakery, and the exterior still exhibits a working water wheel.
Old town hall
Visit the Old Town Hall for a look at the 17th century interiors and a visit to the Baltic Sea Culture Center. The Old Town Hall is a remnant of the past when the Old Town and the main cities of Gdansk were separate entities. Both town halls were initially built during the 14th century; Despite its name, Old Town is no older than Main Town.
