A Striking Symbol of Gdańsk, Poland
Motława River. Gdańsk, Poland.
Once a powerful Hanseatic port on the Baltic Sea, Gdańsk, Poland has been shaped by trade, war, and resilience.
Walking along the Motława River, the medieval Crane (Żuraw) instantly pulls you back in time.
Built in the 15th century, it was one of Europe’s largest port cranes, powered by human treadwheels, lifting cargo and masts that helped fuel the city’s rise as a maritime powerhouse.
Medieval Crane (Żuraw). Gdańsk, Poland.
Today, it stands as a striking symbol of Gdańsk’s industrial ingenuity and seafaring past.
Medieval Crane (Żuraw). Gdańsk, Poland.
Just a short walk away, Mariacka Street feels like stepping into a storybook.
Narrow and intimate, lined with ornate terraces, stone gargoyles, and amber shops, it’s one of the most photogenic streets in the city.
Mariacka Street. Gdańsk, Poland.
The worn steps and details tell centuries of stories, and the way light spills down the street in the early morning or late afternoon makes it a must for anyone chasing atmosphere and character.
Mariacka Street. Gdańsk, Poland.