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“St. Mary’s Church stands tall in the Old Town as a symbol of faith and architectural wonder.”

“Its soaring Gothic spires dominate the skyline, inviting visitors to marvel at its intricate details and centuries-old history.”

A marvel, St. Mary’s Church, straight across from Piwna 47 Restaurant, is a Roman Catholic church and co-cathedral located in central Gdańsk, Poland. Completed in 1502 in the Brick Gothic architectural style, it is one of the world’s largest brick churches and among the city’s most important landmarks, known to its inhabitants as the Crown of Gdańsk.

In the heart of the Old Town, St Mary’s has a massive 78m-high tower dominating the Gdańsk cityscape. Begun in 1343, the building reached its present proportions in 1502. The high altar has a Gothic artwork from the 1510s, with the Coronation of the Virgin depicted in its central panel. Don’t miss the 15th-century astronomical clock and church tower (a climb of 405 steps).

“The church suffered significant damage during World War II, with much of its interior destroyed. However, it has been meticulously restored to its former glory, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of Gdańsk itself.”

Natural light passes through thirty-seven large windows, lighting the three-naved interior, which is topped by an intricate Gothic vault. At first glance, the church’s interior looks almost empty, but walking around its thirty-odd chapels reveals how many outstanding works of art have been accumulated.

St. Mary’s Church in Gdańsk is often described as a “marvel,” a “magnificent” and “monumental” hall church, and a “symbol of faith and architectural wonder”. Visitors highlight its vastness, intricate details, and the breathtaking views from the tower.

: Gdańsk Music and Congress Centre

: St Mary’s Church

‘I am Polish enough to sacrifice all music of the world for Chopin.’ – Friedrich Nietzsche.

Following a meal at Piwna 47, our next stop is a concert. The Polish Baltic Philharmonic, named after Fryderyk Chopin in Gdańsk, based in the Gdańsk Music and Congress Centre, is the largest musical institution in northern Poland, visited by music lovers from Poland and from all over the world. It is a place for people who want to experience art at the highest level. The PFB organises symphonic concerts, recitals and chamber music evenings performed by the most outstanding Polish musicians and artists from all over the world.

The Polish Baltic Philharmonic hosts conductors and music ensembles from all over the world. The Polish Baltic Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra is led by outstanding conductors from Poland and invites well-known solo artists.

: The Polish Baltic Philharmonic

: Classic Polish Ciasto (Cake)

The symphony orchestra has participated in many national and European festivals, including the Warsaw Autumn Festival of Contemporary Music, the Gdańsk Music Festival, the Ludwig van Beethoven Easter Festival, etc.

The Centre also houses a fine arts gallery with works by local and foreign artists. We enjoyed a concert, including a brilliant performance of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36. On any visit to Gdansk, it’s a clever idea to schedule a concert visit. There are a number of excellent restaurants nearby for a pre-concert meal.