The Old Town: Churches, Clocks and Amber

Route map

Route stops

1. 1

   St Nicholas' Basilica

   Gothic Dominican church that keeps its Baroque and Rococo furnishings

   
2. 2

   Hala Marketplace

   Built in 1896, Mercado de la Hala is a striking Neo-Gothic market hall constructed above the remains of 12th-century St Nicholas Church, whose foundations are visible in the basement. The market seamlessly blends medieval history with everyday local life, serving as an architectural gem in Gdansk's city centre. A distinctive landmark where you can shop for fresh produce, traditional fare and local goods whilst experiencing layers of the city's past beneath your feet.

   
3. 3

   St Catherine's Church

   Gdansk's oldest church, featuring a striking octagonal baptistery dating from the 16th century and a 15th-century fresco. Located opposite the Old Town Hall in one of the most charming quarters of the historic centre, this Church of Saint Catherine is well worth a visit for those exploring Gdansk's medieval architecture.

   
4. 4

   Church of Saint Brigid

   The Church of Santa Brígida is a 14th-century Gothic structure that was painstakingly rebuilt following the Second World War. Its most striking feature is the magnificent main altar, crafted almost entirely from Baltic amber. The church holds significant historical importance as a sanctuary for the Solidarity movement during the communist period, making it a notable landmark in Gdańsk's cultural heritage.

   
5. 5

   Amber Museum

   Housed in a striking medieval tower that once served as a prison, the Museo del Ámbar showcases an impressive collection of Baltic amber dating back up to 40 million years. The museum features exceptional specimens with preserved insects and reptiles trapped within the fossilised resin, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life. This intimate museum provides a unique window into an ancient world, set within the historic walls of Gdańsk's Old Town architecture.

   
6. 6

   Old Town Hall

   This 16th-century Town Hall, designed by Antoon van Obberghen, showcases Dutch Mannerist architecture at its finest. The building is adorned with Delft tiles and paintings by Herman Han. Today, it houses the Baltic Cultural Centre, making it both a striking historical monument and an active cultural venue worth visiting to explore Gdańsk's rich maritime heritage and artistic legacy.