The Town Hall spire, with a golden replica of King Zygmunt August on its pinnacle, dominates ul. Długa's skyline. Built in the late 14th century as the seat of city authorities, the Town Hall hosted many Polish kings. It was almost completely destroyed during WWII but rebuilt with extraordinary care. The tower contains a 37-bell clarion which was inaugurated on New Year's Eve 2000. The interior of the building, home to Gdańsk History Museum today, is lushly decorated with painted ceilings, colourful frescoes and elaborate furniture and carvings.
Two solemn lions guard its 18th century portal, from where an elaborate staircase leads to the luxuriant Sala Czerwona, the Red Room. This room was used by the council in summer. Its ornamented ceiling is decorated with 25 paintings surrounding a central piece entitled The Glorification of the Unity of Gdańsk. The town hall is another place that offers you views from the top of the tower while the weather is good.
City Essentials
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