The historic city of Gdansk, renowned as one of Poland’s most enchanting seaside destinations, invites visitors to explore its rich heritage and captivating history. Situated in the Tricity area alongside Sopot and Gdynia, Gdansk offers a diverse array of experiences, ensuring that every traveler finds something to enjoy.
Gdansk, formerly known as Danzig, holds a crucial place in 20th-century European history. It was here that the invasion of Poland by Germany began in 1939, sparking the outbreak of World War II. Later, the city played a pivotal role in the Solidarity movement, which became the first opposition group to participate in free elections within a Soviet-bloc nation.
Poland has long been a melting pot of cultures, with Gdansk standing out as a vibrant center for Jewish life and culture since medieval times. The city welcomed Jewish merchants from Lithuania in the 15th century, enriching its cultural landscape. However, this heritage is also marked by profound tragedy. Many Jewish residents of Gdansk faced the horrors of the Holocaust, with numerous victims perishing at the Stutthof concentration camp.
Survival and Resilience: The Enduring Legacy of Gdansk’s Torah Scrolls
The New Synagogue in Gdansk, erected in 1927, holds a unique place in the city’s history as the sole synagogue. It initially served Jewish refugees from Russia and Wielkopolska, in addition to local residents. In 1938, to protect the synagogue from the widespread destruction affecting other synagogues, the local Jewish community decided to sell the property to the city of Danzig (now Gdansk). This decision was crucial in preserving the synagogue from the devastation of that era.
Despite the wartime trials, the Torah scrolls of the New Synagogue survived. After the conflict, they were returned to Gdansk’s resilient Jewish community, symbolizing the enduring spirit and legacy of the city’s Jewish heritage.
The New Synagogue, Gdansk: New York Jewish Travel Guide
Preserving History: Exploring Gdansk’s Jewish Heritage Through Exhibitions
The Jewish Community in Gdansk is the only center for religious services in the Tricity region, serving as a crucial spiritual and social gathering point for around 90 registered members. This tightly knit community not only maintains the New Synagogue but also oversees the Jewish Cemetery in Chelm, with future plans to care for the Sopot Jewish Cemetery.
Visitors to the New Synagogue can explore a small yet poignant exhibition on the ground floor, which narrates the history of Gdansk’s Jewish community before World War II and the devastating impact of the Holocaust. In the spring, a new exhibition will open on the first floor, featuring recently unearthed artifacts from the Stutthof Concentration Camp, where many of Gdansk’s Jewish residents tragically perished. This upcoming display will offer a deeper understanding of the horrors endured by the Jewish community during the war.
The New Synagogue, Gdansk: New York Jewish Travel Guide
Mychal Samet, president of Gdansk’s Jewish community, told The New York Jewish Travel Guide that there is a belief many people in the region may have Jewish heritage, though some are unaware of their roots or reluctant to acknowledge them. He noted that weekly Sabbath services are held in a modest synagogue or study hall, housed in the same building as the community’s offices and dining area.
Samet highlighted the urgent need for renovations to the synagogue’s interior. “We need significant funding to restore both the building and its interior,” he explained. “This space is not just the heart of Jewish life but also a place where local non-Jewish residents can learn about Poland’s rich Jewish heritage.” He emphasized Gdansk’s unique importance, as it is home to one of the few remaining synagogues in this part of Poland. “Preserving this heritage is our duty, and we cannot afford to neglect it.”
While a Jewish renaissance has spurred the revival of Jewish life in larger cities like Warsaw and Wroclaw, Gdansk is still striving to revitalize its own Jewish community and reclaim its heritage.
The New Synagogue, Gdansk: – New York Jewish Travel Guide
The Legacy of the Great Synagogue: From Grandeur to Tragedy
The Great Synagogue of Gdansk once stood as a monument of grandeur and historical significance, among the largest synagogues ever built in the city. With a capacity to hold up to 2,000 worshippers, its main chamber accommodated 1,600 attendees, with a separate women’s section for 400.
Inside, the synagogue was an architectural marvel, adorned with stained glass windows, towering chandeliers, stone lions guarding the Decalogue tablets, and a majestic organ. By the 20th century, the Great Synagogue had become a vibrant center for Reform Judaism, even housing a Museum of Judaica. However, the rise of Nazi control over the city in 1933 marked the beginning of its decline. A series of arson attempts, culminating in 1938, saw the destruction of sacred Torah scrolls. In response, valuable artifacts were transported abroad for safekeeping.
Today, the prospect of rebuilding the Great Synagogue is unfeasible. A portion of its former site is occupied by the Gdansk Shakespeare Theatre, while other areas are under state protection. A memorial plaque now stands as a tribute to the synagogue’s legacy, honoring the Jewish community’s sacrifices during World War I and their efforts to safeguard their heritage against Nazi persecution.
Stutthof Concentration Camp: A Dark Chapter in History
Established in 1939, the Stutthof Concentration Camp became the first and longest-operating Nazi camp on Polish territory. Originally designed for 3,000 inmates, it ultimately witnessed the suffering of over 125,000 prisoners from 26 countries, many of whom perished in its gas chambers after enduring unimaginable torture and forced labor.
Today, the Stutthof Museum preserves the memory of these atrocities. Visitors encounter harrowing remnants, including a gas chamber, crematorium, several living quarters, and the imposing SS watchtower. These stark reminders stand as a testament to the horrors inflicted during this grim chapter in history, ensuring the legacy of the victims endures.
Stutthof Concentration Camp Memorial: New York Jewish Travel Guide
“Preserving Memory: The Jewish Cemeteries of Sopot and Chelm and Their Historical Significance”
Sopot’s Jewish Cemetery stands as a unique historical site, still bearing its original walls and entrance gate despite the passage of time and the loss of many internal monuments. Established in 1913, this peaceful 0.5-hectare cemetery is nestled among towering linden and birch trees and serves as the final resting place for numerous Jewish families from the area.
As visitors stroll through the moss-covered grounds, they will find graves with inscriptions in Polish, German, Russian, and Hebrew, dating from 1922 to 1936, the year of the last burial. Among the gravestones is a monument dedicated to Jewish soldiers, while above the entrance gate, a Hebrew inscription reads, “This is the Gate to God.”
Thanks to the Polish Nissenbaum Foundation, the cemetery has undergone partial restoration and is now recognized as a registered monument. Although no longer used for burials, the cemetery’s preservation underscores its historical significance.
Sadly, the cemetery drew international attention when it was vandalized by a group from Gdansk, who claimed to be anti-fascist. The desecration of certain gravestones highlighted the ongoing need to protect and respect this sacred space. In a heartfelt response, local residents swiftly hung a banner apologizing for the attack, demonstrating their dedication to preserving the cemetery’s dignity and historical integrity.
Nearby, the Chelm Jewish Cemetery, one of Poland’s oldest, managed to survive the Holocaust but fell into disrepair after its closure in 1956. The Jewish community, with roots dating back to 1694, is now working to restore it. A particularly moving tribute in the region is the Monument to the Evacuated Children, which honors the Kindertransport that saved around 10,000 Jewish children. Sculptor Frank Meisler, a Kindertransport survivor himself, unveiled the memorial near Gdansk’s Glowny train station on May 6, 2009.
Sopot’s Jewish Cemetery, New York Jewish Travel Guide
Monument to the Evacuated Children- New York Jewish Travel Guide
Top Must-See Attractions in Gdansk
Gdansk’s Iconic Waterfront: Enjoy stunning views of one of Europe’s most picturesque waterfronts. A leisurely stroll along the harbor provides an opportunity to take in the city’s vibrant charm, accompanied by the melodies of street musicians and the tempting aromas of local restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to watch boats glide across the water or embark on an unforgettable harbor cruise.
Colors of the Old Town: Immerse yourself in the heart of Gdansk’s historic center, where a fascinating fusion of Germanic and Polish architectural styles tells the story of the city’s rich heritage. As you wander through the Old Town, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful structures that invite you to explore Gdansk’s past and culture.
Gdansk’s Beautiful Harbor: New York Jewish Travel Guide
In this square, don’t miss the iconic Neptune Fountain, a symbol of Gdansk, and the original Fahrenheit Thermometer Monument—Daniel Fahrenheit, the thermometer’s inventor, was born in the city. The Golden House, a 17th-century masterpiece, features an exquisitely carved facade depicting historical scenes. Nearby, Uphagen’s House, built in 1776 in rococo style, is now part of Gdansk’s Historical Museum, where visitors can admire a stunning collection of period textiles and garments.
The Charm of Gdansk’s Gargoyles
As you stroll through the streets, be on the lookout for the city’s many unique gargoyles, each with its own distinct charm and character, adding to Gdansk’s rich architectural and historical allure.
Gdansk’s Długi Targ ‘Long Market’: New York Jewish Travel Guide
Discover Gdansk’s Amber Heritage
Immerse yourself in Gdansk’s rich amber legacy at the Amber Museum, situated in the historic old prison tower. Learn about the significance of amber, formed from ancient tree resin, and admire intricate sculptures and art crafted from this precious material. For a unique souvenir, take a stroll down Mariacka Street, where you can find exquisite amber jewelry.
Relax on the Baltic Coast
Escape the urban hustle with a visit to Gdynia’s clean, sandy beach. Enjoy the trendy cafés, bars, and museums along the shore. In Sopot, a charming seaside resort, explore the distinctive architecture of the Krzywy Domek (Crooked House), savor local bars and cafes, and take a leisurely stroll along the longest pier on the Baltic Sea for a delightful coastal experience.
Explore Malbork Castle
For history enthusiasts, Malbork Castle is a must-see. As the largest castle in the world by land area, it was built in the 13th century as the headquarters of the Grand Master of the Order. With approximately 30 million bricks, it’s a remarkable medieval structure. Explore its numerous rooms, expansive gardens, and, depending on the season, enjoy activities like archery or knight’s duel performances. Malbork Castle has held UNESCO World Heritage status since 1997.
Learn About Polish Emigration
Explore Poland’s extensive diaspora connections at the Immigration Museum in Gdynia. Housed in the beautifully restored Marine Station building from the interwar period, this museum offers insights into Polish emigration history through unique artwork and personal stories. It’s a compelling place to understand the global impact of Poland’s historical and ongoing emigration.
To plan your trip to Poland, reach out to the Polish Tourism Board or visit their official websites at Poland Travel and Visit Gdansk.
For train travel, contact Rail Europe or visit Rail Europe.
Story and photography by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide and New York Jewish Guide.com.
The author participated in a press trip sponsored by the Polish Tourism Board.
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