Gdansk
An Introduction to Gdansk
Gdansk is a Polish city found on the Baltic coast in the northern region of the country. The city has been built in the heart of the fourth biggest metropolitan region of the country and is located to the southern side of the Gdansk Bay in the Baltic Sea. Gdansk is the main seaport of Poland and is also the biggest city of the Kashubian region historically. The city is found in the proximity of the erstwhile boundary between the Germanic lands and West Slavic region tracing back to the late medieval/ early modern times.
The city has played a significant role in the history of the nation having participated in various ways through different periods in history; from the German rule to the Polish rule to the period of being recognized as a free city and today, as a part of modern Poland. Another historic development that traces its origins to the city is the birth of the Solidarity movement, which was carried on under the guidance of political activist Lech Walesa and was instrumental in the downfall of the Communist Regime in Central Europe.
Once a part of the Hanseatic League, Gdansk used to be a shipbuilding hub and a significant seaport at one time and is now recognized as an important industrial center.
Places of Interest in Gdansk
There are several places of tourist interest in Gdansk. In the old town region the Golden Gate and the Hall of the Main City are some of the premier attractions. The Hall of Gdansk contains a museum that showcases some historically significant exhibits tracing the history and evolution of the city.
There is also a collection of photographs from the period after the Second World War showcasing the extent of damage in the region.
The Neptune Fountain and Motlawa River Bank are other places tourists can visit.
There are several churches in Gdansk that are worth touring. The most famous of these is the St. Mary’s Church, which is amongst the biggest churches made in the gothic architectural style in Europe and is reportedly the biggest brick church in the entire world, with a capacity to hold over 20,000 people. St. Bridget’s Church, St. Nicholas’ Church and St. Catherine’s Church are other prominent churches in the city.
Buying Amber Artifacts In Gdansk
Most tourists take the time to purchase amber artifacts when visiting Gdansk. The city is often referred to as the Amber Capital of the world. The region surrounding the city is known to be the richest source of the amber stone in the world. The semi-precious product is found in a variety of forms for sale in the city markets, from mementos to trinkets. Amber objects containing insects preserved within them are a popular collector’s item and are very expensive.
Visiting Gdansk With The Baltic Travel Company
One can visit the city of Gdansk with the City Breaks tour packages offered by the Baltic Travel Company.