Colourful Gdansk

The Green Gate

For some of us our first thoughts of the Polish city of Gdansk are docks, Solidarity and Lech Walesa.  Although the momentous events leading to the break-up of the Communist regime and to the start of World War II are commemorated, the jewel in this Hanseatic city is its Medieval centre.

When entering Long Street from the bridge over the River Motlawa you are faced with a noble brick edifice below which are four arches leading through to a street of artwork.  Incidentally, Lech Walesa's office is in this building which is the Green Gate.

The Apothecary's House

Yes, I did say a street of artwork.  On both sides of the street are rows of colourful houses, some of which date back to the Middle Ages and all have some form of artistic adornment.  For example, the Apothecary's House has murals relating to his trade, others have intricate columns and statues such as the Golden House, plasterwork and gilding, murals of medieval figures including one, appropriately above a restaurant, depicting a medieval banquet.  At ground floor level most of these buildings house shops, cafes and restaurants.

During the past twenty years or so a great deal of restoration has been carried out - and it continues.  Along the river banks warehouses have been restored and new ones - replicas of what once stood there - are being constructed.  Rather than function as warehouses they now contain offices, apartments, museums and shops.

Further away from the old town is the beautiful Park Oliwski which has gardens in French and English styles and is a delightful place for a stroll.

In the old town is the brick built St. Mary's Church which while worth a visit is - for me - outclassed by the Baroque Oliwa Cathedral with its three aisles and vaulted basilica.  One of its prized possessions is the late 18th century Rococo organ - 7,876 pipes and 110 organ stops.  Big.

Before leaving Gdansk do pay homage at the Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers - three crosses with anchors - at the shipyard gates.

The shipyards are now, unfortunately, closed but plans are afoot for restoration and revitalisation of the area with people calling for some of the cranes to be restored as a monument.  Sounds like it will be time to revisit Gdansk in five or ten years time.

I only had time to see the city on an excursion from the cruise ship but as there is so much to see I would recommend at least a week there which gives time to visit nearby places of interest.  Maybe spend a day on the beach at Sopot and take a stroll around Gdynia.