Stara Orunia Water Reservoir: History, Sightseeing and Nature
- Damian Brzeski
- Jan 9
- 8 min read
Did you know that there is a unique monument of hydrotechnics under Gdańsk? The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir, which is part of the Gdańsk water supply route, is an underground "water temple" that delights with both history and architecture.
Built in 1869, it was a key element of the Gdańsk water supply system and still serves as a reservoir of drinking water today.
Why does its interior, reminiscent of a Gothic cathedral, attract visitors to the water reservoir so much? Find out by discovering the extraordinary history of Gdańsk's waterworks!
Construction and importance of the reservoir in 1869
The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir is one of the oldest hydrotechnical structures in Gdańsk , built in 1869 as an element of the city's modern water supply system . Its construction responded to the growing needs of residents resulting from the dynamic development of the city in the 19th century.
The reservoir was built to store drinking water and ensure its constant access to the residents of Gdańsk.
Situated on a hill in the Stara Orunia area, the reservoir used natural pressure, which enabled efficient delivery of water to lower-lying districts. This arrangement significantly increased the reliability of the entire network.
Bricks from the brickyard in Kolibki, known for its excellent quality materials, were used for its construction. The structure, based on symmetrical pillars supporting the vaults, resembles a "water temple". This unusual interior attracts visitors to the water reservoir and lovers of the history of architecture.
The creation of the reservoir became a milestone in the history of Gdańsk's waterworks , effectively eliminating the risk of epidemics related to surface water contamination. This unique facility remains an important testimony to the development of Gdańsk's water infrastructure.
Leopold von Winter and his role in the development of Gdańsk's waterworks
The construction of the Stara Orunia Water Reservoir was the result of the vision of Leopold von Winter, mayor of Gdańsk from 1863 to 1890. His term of office played a key role in the modernization of the city, including the modernization of Gdańsk's water supply system .
It was during his rule that the project to build a reservoir as part of a comprehensive water supply network was initiated.
Leopold von Winter saw the need to provide residents with access to clean drinking water , which was essential to improving sanitary conditions and public health.
His activities were not limited to the construction of reservoirs, such as the one on Orunia. The development of the network of water channels and water intakes made the water supply system of Gdańsk a model for other cities in the region.
Leopold von Winter went down in history as one of the greatest reformers of Gdańsk . His contribution to the development of water supply infrastructure still arouses admiration, and numerous places in the city bear his name.
Eduard Friedrich Wiebe's project – architecture and technology
Eduard Friedrich Wiebe, a German engineer specialising in the construction of urban hydrotechnical infrastructure, was responsible for the technical and architectural design of the Stara Orunia Water Reservoir .
His vision combined functionality with durability, ensuring the tank served its purpose for decades and remains an impressive example of 19th-century engineering today.
Wiebe designed the reservoir as an underground structure consisting of a system of chambers supported by solid pillars.
Thanks to the use of high-quality bricks from the brickyard in Kolibki, the structure withstood the pressure of accumulated water and natural erosion processes in the ground.
The construction technology was based on precise measurements and modern solutions for those times, such as waterproof cement mortar.
The tank not only stored water, but also regulated its pressure in the water system.
The architecture is also noteworthy – the symmetrical vaults resemble the interior of a cathedral, which gives the reservoir an almost sacral character. Today, it is often called a “water temple”, which perfectly reflects the impression that the reservoir makes on visitors .
Wiebe's design became a model for similar buildings and significantly influenced the development of Gdańsk's water supply system .
Brickyard in Kolibki – a source of building materials
During the construction of the Stara Orunia Water Reservoir, the brickyard in Kolibki, located on the border of Gdynia and Sopot, played a key role. This plant was known for producing high-quality building materials, valued throughout the Pomerania region.
The bricks from Kolibki were distinguished by their durability and resistance to moisture, which was essential for hydrotechnical structures. Their solidity allowed the creation of a vault that withstood water pressure and ground settlement.
The brickyard was one of the largest plants in the region, and its products were also used in other investments in Gdańsk.
In the case of the Orunia reservoir, the bricks supplied enabled the construction of a unique structure that has lasted for over 150 years.
Material from Kolibki played a key role in the construction of this underground structure, which to this day delights both reservoir visitors and experts in architecture and engineering.
Stara Orunia Water Reservoir as a Tourist Attraction
The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir is not only a historic element of the Gdańsk water supply infrastructure , but also a popular tourist attraction that attracts lovers of history, architecture and nature.
Visiting the reservoir – what is worth seeing?
During the tour, you can go underground to admire the unique structure reminiscent of a Gothic cathedral. The impressive vaults and pillars are especially impressive in the soft lighting that highlights the architectural details.
Guides talk about the history of the reservoir's construction, its significance and the technology used in the 19th century.
Gdansk Waterworks Trail
The Orunia reservoir is part of the Gdańsk Waterworks Trail , connecting key facilities related to the city's waterworks, such as the water tower and other underground water reservoirs . The trail offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Gdańsk's waterworks and hydrotechnical techniques.
Time capsule from 1869
During revitalization works in 2016–2018, a time capsule from 1869 was discovered, bricked up in one of the reservoir walls. The find contained documents describing the construction and technical plans of the facility.
Today the capsule is on display in one of the rooms, where you can see original notes from over 150 years ago.
Bat Festival
The reservoir has also become the site of the annual Bat Festival , organized in the fall. The event includes workshops, lectures, and a guided night tour of the reservoir.
This is a unique opportunity to learn interesting facts about the bats that inhabit the facility and discover the secrets of this place in a completely new light.
Bats in the reservoir - a habitat of rare species
The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir is not only a historic hydrotechnical facility, but also a shelter for rare species of bats. The stable temperature and high humidity in the underground created ideal conditions for these nocturnal mammals.
Pond bat – an endangered species
The reservoir’s inhabitants include the pond bat , one of the most endangered bat species in Europe. This rare and strictly protected mammal uses the facility as a hibernation and resting place, making Stara Orunia a key element in its protection under the Natura 2000 program.
Brown Long-eared Bat and Other Bats
The underground is also inhabited by other species, such as the brown long-eared bat , greater bat , Natterer's bat , and the Daubenton's bat . The reservoir offers them a safe haven during the winter, and their presence is evidence of the unique microclimate of this place.
Natura 2000 – habitat protection
The site is part of the Natura 2000 network, which provides bats and the entire ecosystem with adequate protection. The program includes both conservation and educational activities that help increase the ecological awareness of residents and tourists.
Stara Orunia Water Reservoir in the Local Context
Located in the picturesque Orunia district, the Gdańsk Orunia Water Reservoir is an integral part of the landscape and history of this part of the city. Its location near green areas and other attractions makes it an important point for residents and tourists.
Oruński Park – a green oasis next to the reservoir
In the vicinity of the reservoir there is Oruński Park , one of the oldest city parks in Gdańsk .
Charming alleys, extensive green areas and the Radunia Canal flowing through the park create a unique atmosphere of peace.
For many visitors, Oruński Park is a perfect complement to a visit to Stara Orunia.
Jerzy viewing point - panorama of the Żuławy Gdańskie
Near the reservoir there is a viewpoint Jerzy, offering a spectacular view of Żuławy Gdańskie . The location of the reservoir on a hill was a conscious engineering choice, which ensured natural water pressure in the system.
The panorama of the area allows us to understand how the terrain influenced the development of the Gdańsk waterworks .
The Radunia Canal , built in the 14th century, flows near the reservoir. For centuries it powered the city's mills and later supported the operation of modern waterworks.
When walking in the area, it is worth paying attention to this element of infrastructure, which is a testament to the engineering excellence of the Middle Ages and the 19th century.
Revitalization and Contemporary Significance
The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir has undergone a thorough revitalization, which has restored its former glory and adapted it to new functions. Thanks to investments from 2016–2018, the facility has become both a tourist attraction and an important element of the Gdańsk water supply system .
Revitalization works 2016–2018
During conservation work, the structure was protected from further destruction. The pillars were reinforced, the vaults were renovated and modern technologies were introduced to monitor the condition of the building.
Original architectural details were also restored, preserving the reservoir's unique character as a historic water reservoir .
In the modernization process, expanded clay was used – an ecological building material that improved insulation and strengthened the structure. Thanks to this, the tank became more resistant to changing weather conditions, while maintaining its functionality.
Today, the reservoir still plays a key role as a reservoir of drinking water , providing supplies in emergencies or when demand increases. At the same time, it acts as a tourist attraction, attracting enthusiasts of history, architecture, and the water supply system of Gdańsk .
Interesting facts and trivia about the Stara Orunia Reservoir
The Stara Orunia Water Reservoir has many fascinating stories and details that make it a unique object both locally and nationally. Here are some interesting facts about this extraordinary place.
Pręgowo – a water source for the reservoir
The water supplied to the reservoir came from the intake in Pręgów , a key element of the Gdańsk water supply system . The local springs, famous for their purity and high quality, provided the residents with healthy and safe drinking water .
The reservoir as a "water temple"
The underground structure of the reservoir is often called the "water temple" due to its unique architecture.
The vaults reminiscent of Gothic cathedrals and the symmetrical rows of pillars create a monumental space that delights visitors to the water reservoir . It is also one of the most photogenic places in Gdańsk, loved by photographers and architecture enthusiasts.
Exceptional durability of the structure
Although the reservoir was built over 150 years ago, its structure is still in excellent condition.
This is the result of solid materials, such as Kolibki bricks, and a carefully thought-out technical design that is a testament to 19th-century engineering mastery.
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