Description of the attraction
The Golden Gate, a building located in the center of Gdansk, is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The Golden Gate was built in 1612-1614 by Jan Strakhovsky according to the design of the architect Abraham van der Block in the style of Dutch Mannerism. Previously, this site housed a Gothic gate built in the 13th century. Next to the Golden Gate is the late Gothic building of the Brotherhood of George.
Both sides of the Golden Gate are decorated with figures that symbolize universal human virtues: peace, freedom, happiness and glory are on the western wall, and harmony, justice, caution and piety are on the eastern side. The sculptures were created in 1648 by the Polish painter and printmaker Jeremias Falk. In addition to allegorical sculptures, the Golden Gate is adorned with an inscription in Latin, which reads: “In agreement, small republics grow, because of disagreements, large republics fall apart” (Concordia res publicæ parvæ crescunt - discordia magnæ concidunt). In 1878, the statues had to be replaced due to the deterioration of the originals. The exact copies of the 19th century were made by Peter Ringering.
During World War II, the Golden Gate was destroyed, and restoration work was completed in 1957. Currently, the building is considered one of the main attractions of the city.
