Great Armoury in Gdańsk

The Great Armoury in Gdańsk, known locally as Wielka Zbrojownia w Gdańsku, stands as a magnificent testament to the city's rich history and architectural splendor. This grand structure, often referred to as the Arsenal, is the most splendid secular building in the Mannerist style in Gdańsk, drawing inspiration from the Meat Hall in Haarlem. As you walk through the streets of this historic city, the Great Armoury beckons with its striking façade and storied past.

The History of the Great Armoury

In the late 16th century, the looming threat from Sweden prompted the citizens of Gdańsk to prepare for potential conflict. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space to store the military equipment produced in and around the city, they decided to construct a special arsenal. However, this was not merely a utilitarian warehouse; the Great Armoury was designed to be a masterpiece of architecture.

Constructed between 1602 and 1605, the building is the work of Antoni van Obberghen, one of the era's most renowned architects in Gdańsk. It was built using fine red Dutch brick, adorned with sandstone decorations and lavish gilding. The structure gives the impression of four distinct townhouses, each a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the time.

Exploring the Great Armoury

The main façade facing Piwna Street is a sight to behold, featuring two grand rusticated portals crowned with cartouches bearing the coats of arms of Gdańsk, supported by lions. A statue of Minerva graces a niche on the upper floor, surrounded by stone masks, strapwork ornaments, and figures of Gdańsk warriors, including pikemen, a halberdier, and a sergeant. The gables are adorned with mustachioed sphinxes and exploding grenades, adding to the building's dramatic flair.

On either side of the façade rise two octagonal towers with domed roofs, housing spiral staircases that invite exploration. The façade facing Targ Węglowy is slightly more modest but no less impressive, with figures of musketeers and a captain adding to its charm. A notable figure is the Cossack, depicted with the severed head of his commander, Jan Podkowa, at his feet—a nod to a dramatic historical event.

The Great Armoury's Resilient Past

Tragically, the Great Armoury was set ablaze during the warfare of 1945. However, its resilience shone through as it was meticulously rebuilt between 1947 and 1965, with the tower domes and gables' stonework restored to their former glory. In the early 2000s, both façades were revitalized, bringing back the polychrome, gilding, and decorative gargoyles that now captivate visitors.

Inside the Great Armoury

Step inside, and you'll find a space that once drew travelers from far and wide. This three-story building housed an array of weaponry, armor, and harnesses, as well as paintings and sculptures. The displays were captivatingly arranged, with armor presented on mannequins seated on horse-like figures, adding a dynamic element that intrigued onlookers. These mannequins were even movable, further enhancing the visitor experience.

The Great Armoury can be likened to a modern museum of military art, with the caveat that in 17th-century Gdańsk, the practical use of the collections was always a consideration.

The Great Armoury Today

Today, the upper floors of the Great Armoury house the Academy of Fine Arts, while the basement and ground floor serve various purposes. Since December 8, 2015, the ground floor has hosted the Zbrojownia Sztuki, an exhibition space for contemporary art organized by the Academy of Fine Arts. It features a main exhibition hall for large projects, a Design Gallery focusing on design and graphics, and the Culture Has Many Faces gallery for smaller artistic endeavors. The remaining ground floor areas are dedicated to culinary delights, offering a taste of Gdańsk's vibrant culture.

Until 2007, a passage through the building provided a convenient shortcut between Piwna Street and Targ Węglowy, a testament to the building's integration into the fabric of the city.

The Great Armoury in Gdańsk is more than just an architectural gem; it's a symbol of the city's resilience and artistic heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast or an art lover, this remarkable building offers a glimpse into the past while celebrating the creativity of the present. A visit to Gdańsk is incomplete without experiencing the grandeur and history of the Great Armoury.