Discover Elbląg, a city that is a fascinating mosaic of experiences for every visitor. Rooted in a rich past dating back to 1237, Elbląg delights with its heritage while dynamically looking to the future.
In this article, we take you on a journey through the most important attractions of Elbląg, from the quiet corners of the Bażantarnia Park, through inspiring art galleries, to the impressive St. Stephen's Cathedral. Nicholas and the mysterious Market Gate. Also explore the unique Elbląg Canal, which is an engineering marvel
A short history of the city of Elbląg
The history of Elbląg dates back to 1237, when the Teutonic Knights founded a defensive castle on the bank of the Elbląg River. A trade settlement was established around the castle, which received Lübeck city rights in 1246. Elbląg was an important port center, belonging to the association of Hanseatic cities, as evidenced by numerous archaeological artifacts found during excavations.
In 1440, Elbląg joined the Prussian Confederation, and after the Peace of Toruń in 1466, it became part of the Polish state, receiving numerous privileges and becoming an important seaport. After the first partition of Poland in 1772, the city was incorporated into the Prussian state.
Economic revival occurred in the 19th century, when Elbląg was on the railway route and the Elbląg Canal was put into operation. During this period, numerous plants were established, including the Ferdinand Schichau shipyard, where torpedo boats, submarines and locomotives were built.
During World War II, approximately 65% of Elbląg was destroyed, with the Old Town particularly damaged. Most of the inhabitants left the city, and the efforts of reconstruction were taken over by the displaced people. In 1945, Elbląg returned to Poland.
Over recent years, Elbląg has expanded, becoming a dynamically developing city with county rights, an industrial, academic and cultural center, as well as an attractive base for tourists.
Top 6 most interesting attractions in Elbląg
Elbląg has a lot to be proud of, and trips around this city can provide each of us with unforgettable experiences. Here, on the picturesque Vistula Lagoon, no one will be bored. What places are worth visiting?
What monuments should you devote your time to? Here are some suggestions for those who are going to Elbląg soon. I invite you on a short trip to Elbląg, of course with our Taxi Elbląg.
Pheasantarnia Forest Park
Those who want to rest among the greenery during their holidays in Elbląg can go for a walk around Bażantarni - a forest park covering an area of nearly 370 ha. This magical area delights with beech and hornbeam forests and ravines, thanks to which every walk in the park becomes a wonderful adventure.
With walkers and cyclists in mind, there is a dense network of trails and educational paths, so everyone will find an interesting route for a nature walk here.
Art Center – El Gallery
Galeria El is one of the most important points on the map of Elbląg, and whoever visits this place will certainly not regret it. The medieval walls of the former Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary host interesting exhibitions and cultural events that can enchant everyone.
The historic interior and contemporary art create a coherent whole here, which every tourist can see during their stay in Elbląg.
Archaeological and Historical Museum
Whoever wants to learn about the history of Elbląg and its surroundings should visit the Archaeological and Historical Museum during a trip around the city. Its collections can enchant anyone, and a visit to the museum building will become an interesting and informative experience for each of us.
The exhibits presented here include valuable items discovered during archaeological research in the Old Town and monuments from the Truso settlement.
St. Cathedral Nicholas
On the list of religious monuments in Elbląg, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas holds a special place. Carefully rebuilt after the destruction of World War II, it delights with beautiful stained glass windows and late Gothic altars that came here from other temples in Elbląg.
The church interior features a bronze baptismal font from 1387, and a figure depicting Saint. Wojciech. It is worth combining a visit to the cathedral with a walk along the nearby Church Path - a narrow passage between houses, which will provide each of us with an unforgettable experience.
Market Gate
The Market Gate is one of the most characteristic buildings in Elbląg. Built in the 14th century, it still impresses with its Gothic form. It is associated with a popular legend about a Piekarczyk who showed great cunning in this place and protected the city against the invasion of a Teutonic unit.
The gate itself is a valuable reminder of the medieval city fortifications, and is also successfully used as a viewing point. It offers beautiful views of Elbląg, and especially of its oldest part.
Elbląg Canal
The Elbląg Canal is an interesting waterway whose history begins in the mid-19th century. Today, it is not only an important technical monument, but also one of the most important tourist attractions in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship.
Between Elbląg and Ostróda, over a distance of over 80 km, there are numerous ramps that help overcome level differences. They are a unique solution, and the sight of ships being rolled on rails on the grass is one of the most interesting memories from a trip around Elbląg.
Elbląg has a lot to be proud of, and trips around this city can turn out to be a great adventure for many of us. No one will be bored here, and the time spent among the local monuments will not be wasted for anyone.
Curiosities related to Elbląg
As you can see, Elbląg and its surroundings are a very interesting place. Here are some more interesting facts about Elbląg:
Elbląg was founded in 1237 and 9 years later it received city rights.
The city's name comes from the Elbing River,which was named in 890 years.
The oldest preserved glasses in Europe were found in Elbląg from the 15th century, as well as unique items such as a giterna and a freight elevator.
The city is located within the Elbląg Upland Landscape Park.
Elbląg Winnica. Vine was grown in the Vinnytsia district in the past .
Elbląg was a city associated with the Hanseatic League in the 13th-17th centuries.
In 1504, Nicolaus Copernicus came to Elbląg .
Elbląg Voivodeship. W In the years 1975-1999 there was the Elbląg Voivodeship.
There are two theaters in Elbląg: Teatr im. Aleksandra Sewruka and Teatr Rajstopy.
The Archaeological and Historical Museum has been operating since 1955, presenting the history of the city.
The city organizes many cultural events, including the Alternative Music Festival and the Elbląg Festival of Hopeless and Embarrassing Music.
Before 1945, the title of honorary citizen of Elbląg was awarded to Adolf Hitler, Hermann Goering and Joseph Goebbels.
Elbląg in numbers
Number of inhabitants of Elbląg: 119,760 people.
Area of the city of Elbląg: 79.82 km².
Population density: Approximately 1,422.8 people/km².
Height above sea level: From -1.5 to 92 m.
Date of establishment of the settlement of Elbląg: 1237.
Date of obtaining city rights: April 10, 1246.
Area code: +48 55.
License plates: NE