The Great Armoury in Gdańsk: History, Architecture and Contemporary Times
- Damian Brzeski
- Dec 20, 2024
- 14 min read
In the heart of the old town, you will find the Great Armoury of Gdańsk – a true gem of Mannerist architecture. The Great Armoury building, also known as the City Arsenal, impresses with its façade and rich history.
Did you know that this is where weapons were once stored, and today the space is bustling with life thanks to the Academy of Fine Arts?
Discover the secrets of the Great Armoury, from the building's eastern façade to its contemporary artistic function that inspires generations to come.
The Great Armoury – the jewel of Gdańsk and a testament to history
In the centre of Gdańsk , a city full of history and unique charm, stands the Great Armoury – a true treasure of Dutch Mannerism architecture.
Also known as the Municipal Arsenal , it has attracted attention for centuries with its majestic appearance and extraordinary history.
The Great Armoury building is a symbol of the city that combines the past with the present , delighting both residents and tourists visiting Gdańsk.
From the arsenal to the art space
The Gdańsk Arsenal was built at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries as a warehouse for weapons and ammunition . At that time, weapons were stored in the Great Armoury building , which indicates its strategic role in the history of Gdańsk .
Over the years, the facades of the Armoury have witnessed numerous events – from wars to political changes. The eastern facade of the Great Armoury in particular, with its intricate decorations, is considered a gem of Renaissance decorative art .
After the reconstruction of the Great Armoury , which was carried out with attention to detail, the building gained new life. Today, the Great Armoury serves not only lovers of history, but also art.
Within its walls is the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk , where successive generations of artists develop their talents.
It is here that the Armoury of Art , an exhibition space, presents works of contemporary art, creating a place full of creativity and inspiration .
Walking through the interior of the Armoury , you can feel the spirit of history that permeates every corner. The facade of the Great Armoury building is decorated with extraordinary details that still delight visitors.
It is the fragments of the Great Armoury , with their intricate finishing, that tell the stories of ancient craftsmen and builders.
It is worth emphasizing that the Great Armoury was designed by a Flemish architect, and the façade of the Great Armoury itself is one of the most magnificent examples of the Mannerism style in Poland.
The people of Gdańsk , walking in the area of the Armoury , can admire its beauty, which has survived the city's turbulent history.
The Great Armoury – a symbol that inspires
Today, the Great Armoury is one of those places that are not only worth visiting, but also worth getting to know better. It is a space where history meets art, and the past intertwines with the present.
Did you know that it is here in the Great Armoury that Gdańsk artists present their works, inspiring subsequent generations of creators?
Discovering the secrets of the Great Armoury in Gdańsk is a true journey through time. Its monumental architecture, richly decorated facades and artistic spirit make it a unique place.
If you ever visit the Main Town of Gdańsk , be sure to stop by the Great Armoury building .
History of the Great Armoury
The Great Armoury , located in the heart of Gdańsk , is a true pearl of Dutch Mannerist architecture .
It is one of the most beautiful secular buildings in the city, and its history is full of fascinating threads . The Great Armoury dates back to 1602-1605, when it served as a military arsenal .
Today, the Great Armoury serves a completely different purpose – it houses the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk and the Zbrojownia Sztuki exhibition space .
Its history is inextricably linked with the development of Gdańsk as a key commercial and military centre in the region.
This is a unique place that harmoniously combines the past with the present , inspiring future generations of visitors.
The origin and purpose of the construction
In the 17th century, Gdańsk, a dynamically developing city, needed solid defensive solutions. The Great Armoury was the answer to these needs.
It was designed as a space for storing weapons and ammunition, which emphasized the strategic importance of the city in Europe at that time.
The armoury not only fulfilled military functions, but also expressed the power and importance of Gdańsk in the international arena.
The role of Johann Speimann and Bartel Schachmann in the construction initiative
Behind the implementation of this ambitious project were two outstanding city councillors – Johann Speimann and Bartel Schachmann .
It was their vision and determination that made the Great Armoury possible. The building was not only to protect the city from threats, but also to underscore its importance on the international stage.
Thanks to their efforts, Gdańsk gained a facility that still delights today:
Architectural form – a harmonious combination of functionality and aesthetics.
History – a testimony to the city’s rich past.
Craftsmanship – precise details and decorations.
Their foresight and concern for the city's future left a lasting mark on its heritage.
War damage in 1945 and reconstruction (1947-1965)
The year 1945 brought enormous destruction to the Great Armoury. As a result of war operations, the building burned down and its interiors were almost completely destroyed.
However, in 1947 the reconstruction process began and lasted until 1965. The reconstruction was extremely meticulous and included:
Reconstruction of the tower cupolas , which were a characteristic element of the building.
Reconstruction of the stonework details decorating the gables of the building.
Restoration of the original architectural splendor .
Thanks to these efforts, the Armoury regained its former glory. Its reconstruction became a symbol of Gdańsk's rebirth after the devastation of war and a testament to the strength, determination and spirit of its residents.
The Great Armoury in the Context of Gdańsk
The Great Armoury in Gdańsk is a true jewel of Mannerist secular architecture and an important element of the city's heritage. Located in the heart of the Main Town , it has been a part of the Gdańsk landscape for centuries, combining practical and symbolic functions.
It was built between 1602 and 1605 as a military arsenal , playing a key role in the city's defense. Today, as the seat of the Academy of Fine Arts , it has been transformed into a cultural center that attracts residents and tourists.
In the old walls, where weapons were once stored , art and culture now reign supreme. The Great Armoury proves that the past can harmoniously work with the present, creating a space full of history and artistic spirit.
The vicinity of the Straw Tower and its storage function
Right next to the Great Armoury is the Straw Tower – a historic structure that has played a key role in the defence system of Gdańsk for centuries.
As part of the city fortifications, it served mainly as a warehouse for weapons and necessary supplies, enabling efficient management of the city's military resources.
Its strategic location near the Great Armoury was invaluable at a time when Gdańsk had to be prepared for various threats.
Today, the Straw Tower no longer serves its original function, but it still impresses with its architecture and reminds us of the city's rich military history. It is a place that tells the story of bygone times and is an important part of Gdańsk's heritage.
The Small Armoury in Gdańsk: The city's second arsenal
Apart from the Great Armoury , Gdańsk can also boast the Small Armoury , which served as the city's second arsenal.
Although more modest in form and less well-known, it was an indispensable element of the defensive system, providing additional space for storing weapons and ammunition .
Despite its smaller size, the Small Armoury played a significant role in maintaining the security of Gdańsk . Its strategic location and functionality were extremely important at a time when the city had to face external threats.
Today, the Small Armoury , like many other monuments of Gdańsk, reminds us of the city's rich past.
Its walls, which once protected valuable resources, have become part of the cultural heritage, attracting history and architecture lovers from around the world.
Dutch Mannerism as an architectural style
The Great Armoury in Gdańsk is one of the most magnificent examples of Dutch Mannerism in Poland. This style, full of rich detail and distinct expression, delights in every corner of the building.
Both the facade of the Great Armoury and its interior attract tourists and art enthusiasts who cannot take their eyes off this unique architecture.
Built at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries, the Great Armoury combines functionality with extraordinary aesthetics. The facades of the Armoury are decorated with intricately crafted ornaments and sculptures that testify to the skill of the masters of the time.
The creators of this building managed to combine tradition with innovative solutions, creating a true work of art.
It is these details that make the Great Armoury not only a monument but also an inspiration for future generations of artists. Its architecture is proof of how history and art can work together in perfect harmony.
Designed by Antoni van Obberghen and inspired by the Meat Markets in Haarlem
The design of the Great Armoury in Gdańsk was the work of Antoni van Obberghen , an outstanding Dutch architect who was inspired by the Meat Halls in Haarlem – one of the most important commercial buildings in the Netherlands.
Van Obberghen, known for his innovative approach, created a work that harmoniously combines functionality with aesthetics, characteristic of Dutch Mannerism .
The influence of the Meat Halls can be seen not only in the structure but also in the decorations of the Great Armoury . The architect adapted these patterns, giving the building a unique character and responding to the practical needs of the arsenal of the time.
Thanks to this, the Great Armoury became a space that perfectly fulfilled its function, while maintaining a unique aesthetic that delights to this day.
Facade from Piwna Street: Towers, sculpture of Minerva and decorative gargoyles
The facade of the Great Armoury from Piwna Street is a true masterpiece of Dutch Mannerism . Decorated with turrets, dragon gargoyles and a statue of Minerva , it attracts the attention of every passer-by.
The sculpture of Minerva, goddess of arts and crafts, symbolises wisdom and protection, perfectly relating to the building’s historical function as an arsenal.
Dragon gargoyles not only serve a practical purpose, but also add dynamics and drama to the façade.
These intricately crafted details are evidence of the extraordinary skill of the ancient craftsmen who raised the Great Armoury to the heights of architectural art.
The richness and complexity of the ornaments make the building stand out as one of the most valuable examples of Mannerism in Poland.
Facade from Targ Węglowy: Cossack sculpture and cannonball symbolism
The façade of the Great Armoury from the Targ Węglowy side may seem less impressive than the one from Piwna Street, but it conceals unique details.
There is a sculpture of a Cossack with the severed head of Jan Podkowa , referring to historical events and legends related to Gdańsk . Although less known, it adds a unique character to the façade.
Cannonballs are also visible on the façade, subtly reminding us of the building's military past. They symbolize the original function of the Great Armoury as a place to store weapons and ammunition .
Thanks to these details, the façade facing Targ Węglowy harmoniously combines history and art, emphasizing the unique character of the building.
Renovations and changes over the years
The Great Armoury in Gdańsk , a symbol of rich history and unique architecture , has undergone numerous renovations that have allowed it to retain its former glory.
One of the key moments was the reconstruction of the Great Armoury after the war damage, carried out between 1947 and 1965.
The spires of the towers and the stonework of the gables were then reconstructed, restoring the building's historic character.
At the turn of 2000-2005 another renovation was carried out, this time focusing on the façade of the Great Armoury .
The work included the restoration of polychrome , gilding and decorative gargoyles , which significantly improved the aesthetics of the building.
Thanks to these actions, the Great Armoury regained its former glory and once again became one of the most recognizable symbols of Gdańsk , delighting residents and tourists alike.
Renovation of the facades (2000-2005): Restoration of polychrome and gilding
In the years 2000-2005 the Great Armoury underwent a thorough renovation of its facades , the aim of which was to restore its original appearance.
The façade was renovated, recreating the polychromes and gildings that were once its hallmark.
Additionally, the decorative gargoyles were restored with extraordinary precision, giving the building a unique character.
Conservation work was both a technical and artistic challenge, requiring precise reproduction of details in accordance with the original designs.
Thanks to the involvement of specialists, the facades of the Great Armoury have regained their historical splendor.
The renovation highlighted the building's significance as one of the most important landmarks in Gdańsk , strengthening its position as a true architectural gem in the city.
The Great Armoury Shopping Arcade: History
The history of the shopping arcade in the Great Armoury dates back to 1923, when the ground floor of the building was adapted to the needs of a commercial space. This was a response to the dynamic development of Gdańsk , which needed new places for business activities.
The flexibility of the Great Armoury's design allowed for such a transformation, which turned out to be a great success.
The shopping arcade quickly became an important part of city life, attracting both locals and tourists . It highlighted the building's importance not only as a historical monument but also as a place bustling with commercial activity.
Although today these functions are no longer as intensive, the history of the passage is a reminder of the past of the Great Armoury and its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the city.
The creators and their contribution to the construction
The people involved in the construction of the Great Armoury in Gdańsk played a fundamental role in creating this masterpiece of Mannerist architecture.
Each artist and craftsman made a unique contribution that together shaped the building into a symbol of the city's prestige and power.
Their work not only enriched the aesthetics of the Armoury, but also gave it a timeless character. It is a work that continues to delight and inspire generations to come.
Abraham van den Block and sculptural decorations
Abraham van den Block , a distinguished sculptor from the Netherlands, was responsible for the sculptural decorations that adorn the Great Armoury . His works, full of precision and refinement, perfectly reflect the Mannerist style of the building.
Thanks to his craftsmanship, he created elements that not only impress with their artistic execution, but also tell a story that has survived through the centuries.
It was his works that gave the Armoury a unique character that still arouses admiration among visitors.
Willem van den Blocke and his collaboration on decorations
Willem van den Blocke , Abraham's brother, also played an important role in the decoration of the Great Armoury in Gdańsk . His works perfectly complemented the artistic vision of the entire project, creating a harmonious whole.
Willem, like his brother, was a master of his craft. His sculptures add a majestic character to the building that attracts the attention of art and architecture lovers from all over the world. It is thanks to such details that the Armoury has become an icon of the Mannerist style.
Szymon Hoerle and carpentry work
Szymon Hoerle , a renowned carpenter, contributed his masterful skills to the carpentry work at the Great Armoury .
His precise execution of wooden interior elements was key to creating a space that combined functionality with aesthetics.
Thanks to his craftsmanship, the interiors of the Armoury are impressive in their harmony and durability. This is a testament to his extraordinary talent, which remains visible in every detail.
Adam Reissing and blacksmith work
Adam Reissing , a master blacksmith, was responsible for the blacksmithing work at the Great Armoury . His skills in metalworking allowed him to create pieces that combined durability with decorativeness.
Reissing enriched the Armoury with details that not only served a practical purpose, but also emphasised its artistic value.
His works are proof that craftsmanship can be a true art that will stand the test of time.
Hans Strakowski as construction manager
Hans Strakowski , as construction manager, played a key role in the implementation of the Great Armoury project.
His organizational skills and technical knowledge were essential to coordinating the construction work and ensuring that all elements of the project were completed in accordance with the architects' vision.
Thanks to his involvement, a building was created that is still a symbol of Gdańsk's architectural heritage. This harmonious combination of art and engineering still makes a huge impression.
Curiosities and symbolism
The Great Armoury in Gdańsk is a place that delights with both its rich history and exceptional architectural beauty. The building conceals numerous curiosities and symbols that have fascinated historians and tourists for years.
The elaborately crafted ornaments and sculptures are not merely decorative elements – each detail conceals its own history and deeper meaning.
It is a space where the past meets the present , inspiring visitors to discover its secrets and admire the extraordinary craftsmanship of old masters.
Sculpture of Minerva: Goddess of Arts and Crafts
On the facade of the Great Armoury from Piwna Street there is a majestic sculpture of Minerva , the goddess of art and craft. This impressive statue not only decorates the building, but carries a deep symbolism of wisdom and protection.
As the patroness of the arts, Minerva fits in perfectly with the current function of the Great Armoury , today home to the Academy of Fine Arts .
The presence of the sculpture reminds us of the importance of art and craft in the development of Gdańsk , both culturally and educationally. It is a unique combination of tradition and modernity that invariably inspires and delights visitors.
Cossack Sculpture: History and Meaning
The façade of the Great Armoury from the side of Targ Węglowy is decorated with a sculpture of a Cossack , depicting a figure holding the severed head of Jan Podkowa .
This dramatic scene refers to the turbulent historical events and legends associated with Gdańsk , giving the façade exceptional depth and symbolic meaning.
The Cossack sculpture is more than just decoration – it is a living testimony to the difficult past of the city and its links with the history of the region.
It is details like these that make the Great Armoury a place full of secrets that encourages you to discover hidden stories.
The building continues to inspire both residents and tourists , reminding us of the extraordinary heritage of Gdańsk .
Contemporary functions of the Great Armoury
The Great Armoury in Gdańsk today performs new, significant functions that make it an important point on the city map.
Formerly a military building, it now impresses with its architecture and serves as a cultural and educational center. It is a place that not only attracts attention, but also teems with life.
The main user of the Great Armoury is the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk , which conducts its educational and exhibition activities here.
Thanks to the presence of the university, the building has gained a new role, becoming a space where students and lecturers develop their talents.
The Great Armoury is a place that inspires, combining art and history in a unique way.
Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk as current user
The Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk plays a key role as the current user of the Great Armoury, transforming it into one of the most important educational and cultural centres in the region. Known for its contribution to the development of art and culture, the Academy uses the space to:
conducting teaching activities,
organizing exhibitions that attract art lovers from all over the world,
promoting young artists and their work,
cultivating artistic traditions in a modern context.
Students have the unique opportunity to educate themselves in a space that is a work of art in itself, which certainly stimulates their creativity and development.
Thanks to this location, the Academy not only cultivates artistic traditions, but also develops them, educating subsequent generations of creators ready for the challenges of the contemporary art world.
Armoury of Art: An exhibition space for contemporary art
The Armoury of Art , located on the ground floor of the Great Armoury , is a dynamic exhibition space dedicated to contemporary art .
It is a place where artists present their works and visitors have the opportunity to become familiar with the latest artistic trends.
As part of the Gdańsk Academy of Art , the Armoury gives young artists a chance to show their works to a wider audience, becoming an important point on the cultural map of the city.
Thanks to this, the Armoury of Art is a meeting place for culture lovers, actively contributing to the revival of the cultural life of Gdańsk .
Contemporary exhibitions show that despite its rich history, the Great Armoury is still full of life, inspiring and delighting visitors.
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