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What are the Top Sights in Gdansk, Poland?
Gdansk is a beautiful, historic city located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship of northern Poland on the Baltic Sea coast. It is home to a vast number of attractions and sights, making it a popular destination for travelers and vacationers year-round. This article examines the most popular Gdansk attractions and what makes them so special andworth visiting.Gdansk is one of the oldest cities in Poland, having been founded as early as 900 A.D. It was also an important Hanseatic port for many centuries, making it a many cultural melting pot for centuries long past and still today. The old town of Gdansk is where most of the popular sights concentrate, offering visitors a wide array of experiences to explore during their visit. With so much to see and do, let’s take a look at the top sights in Gdansk.
1. St. Mary’s Church
This stunning Gothic church dates all the way back to year 1343. It was built upon the orders of King Casimir III and has been remodeled, reconstructed, and expanded over time into its current state today. This impressive piece of architecture stands tall at 287 feet, making it one of the largest brick churches in the world. It is considered a symbol of Gdansk, representing the wealth and power of this colorful metropolis throughout the centuries. St. Mary’s church also features intricately designed stained glass windows and detailed interior fresco paintings from some of Europe’s most renowned Renaissance painters.
2. Upland Gate
The Upland Gate dates back to the 16th century and was erected as a gate between old-town Gdansk and the city’s surrounding countryside, representing the line between city and country. The Upland Gate is also referred to as the Triumphal Gate by locals, and has since become an iconic symbol of the city. It stood preserved until 1939, when it was destroyed by Nazi forces, and then it was later rebuilt in 1956 in its original 15th-century Baroque style.
3. Golden Gate
Built by citizens from Gdansk in 1612, the Golden Gate was meant to be a symbol of power for their newly liberated city. This elaborate structure stands tall at two stories, topped by a golden crown made of solid aluminum which gives this structure its delightful name. The building is also home to numerous fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Gdansk from its proclamation of freedom in 1918 until today.
4. Long Market
The Long Market stretches for nearly 700 feet long and is located right next to St. Mary’s Basilica. It is a bustling center of shopping, dining, entertainment and other attractions that can’t be missed while visiting Gdansk. The narrow cobblestone lane runs between the Torture Tower to River Motława, housing many colorful buildings, including some with Gothic origins that date all the way back to the 14th century. In addition to being able to pick up plenty of souvenirs here, visitors can also find vendors selling handmade products and art pieces as well as eateries serving up some of the finest Polish cuisine around.
5. Artus Court
The Artus Court is an important cultural center for Gdansk and was constructed in 1347 as a royal court hall. Today, this stunning building hosts a variety of events including theater performances, dance performances, concerts and exhibitions. Additionally, Artus Court has an impressive collection of souvenirs that span periods from Medieval to contemporary times which are available for purchase in the gift shop inside. Tourists can also attend educational lectures on cultural topics that are held throughout the year.
6. Green Gate
Erected between 16th and 17th centuries, the Green Gate stands out among Gdansk’s many other notable sites with its grandeur look and intricate features. The three-floor structure was built as a residence for Polish monarchs but has since been converted into a museum that houses some of the city’s most valuable art pieces and antiques from about 400 years ago up until today. Dedicated visitors can also stop by for guided tours that offer more detailed information about its history and items housed inside this marvelous palace-like structure.
7. Main Town Hall & Neptune Fountain
The Main Town Hall in Gdansk dates back to over 600 years ago when it was used as an administrative center for the Gothic city council. Today it serves as home to many important rooms as well as an auditorium which hosts various events throughout the year, but it holds its most important attraction: The Neptune Fountain located right next to it. Carved from marble in 1549 by Dutch sculptor Willem Danielsz Van Tetrode, this breathtaking sculpture stands nearly twenty feet tall and is undoubtedly one of Poland’s most admired statues anywhere in the world. These are just some of Gdansk’s most popular attractions which are worth experiencing if you’re ever visiting this northern Polish port city on your travels. From gorgeous churches to amazing fountains, Gdansk has something for everyone and always deserves being experienced with your own eyes! For more information about these attractions or other exciting sites to visit in Gdansk you can read through this guide.
