Old Port Crane — Attraction in Gdansk

The Old Crane, or Stary Żuraw, is one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable landmarks in Gdańsk. Its massive silhouette stands proudly over the Motława River, serving as a powerful symbol of the city’s rich maritime history. You really can’t miss it when walking along the waterfront—it’s not only the largest water gate in the city, but one of the most unique historical structures I’ve ever seen.

Originally dating back to at least 1367, the crane we see today was rebuilt in 1444 after a fire destroyed the earlier wooden version. The final western brick façade was completed in 1483, giving the building the imposing medieval look it still carries today. It’s flanked by two large, rounded defensive towers that once housed cannon emplacements, making it both a working crane and a fortified city gate.

The most fascinating part? The lifting mechanism inside. It was powered by treadwheels—massive wooden wheels turned by workers walking inside them like human hamsters. This system could lift up to two tons to a height of almost 40 meters (120 feet), which is just incredible when you consider the time period. It’s a true feat of medieval engineering.

The Crane served the port for centuries, although its use gradually declined until the mid-20th century. It suffered serious damage again in 1945 but was faithfully rebuilt by 1965. Today, it’s part of the Polish Maritime Museum and houses permanent exhibitions that showcase what everyday life was like in Gdańsk’s port between the 16th and 18th centuries. The exhibits are well done and informative, giving you a strong sense of the city's working-class roots and seafaring heritage.

There is a small admission fee to enter the Crane and explore the museum inside, and it's definitely worth it if you're interested in history or engineering. If you're planning your visit, note that admission to the nearby granaries is free on Wednesdays, so you can make a half-day out of exploring the Maritime Museum's various buildings.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture lover, or just soaking up the charm of Gdańsk’s Old Town, Stary Żuraw is a must-see. Standing in front of it, you can’t help but imagine the bustling port centuries ago and the workers powering the crane from within. It’s a living piece of the past—beautiful, bold, and completely...

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, situated along the Motława River in Gdańsk’s Old Town. Dating back to the 15th century, it is the oldest and largest surviving port crane in medieval Europe. Originally serving as both a city gate and a cargo-handling facility, the crane was operated by men walking inside massive wooden wheels to lift heavy goods and ship masts.  

After being closed for over three years for extensive renovations—the most significant in half a century—the Crane reopened in April 2024. The restoration included structural reinforcements and the installation of a new permanent exhibition that immerses visitors in Gdańsk’s maritime history during its 17th-century golden age. Exhibits cover topics such as navigation, trade goods, shipbuilding techniques, and the daily life of the port city. A highlight of the visit is the original treadwheel mechanism, which showcases the engineering marvels of the time.  

The Crane is open Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Ticket prices are 26 PLN for adults and 19 PLN for reduced admission. Entry is free on Wednesdays.  

Visitors should be aware that the building is not fully accessible for individuals with mobility impairments due to its historical architecture. Additionally, the number of visitors inside the Crane is limited to 50 at a time, so planning ahead is advisable. 

Overall, the Gdańsk Crane offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich maritime heritage and stands as a testament to its historical significance in European trade and...

The Gdańsk Crane is a truly special place. It's a historic structure that's been around since 1444! It has such an interesting history. It was originally used as a port crane, a city gate, and even as part of the defensive wall. Its amazing design included two huge towers and a wooden crane that could lift heavy things, like ship masts! The amazing Gdańsk Crane was powered by workers walking inside large treadwheels, and it could lift up to 4 tonnes! It was most active during the 16th and 17th centuries when Gdańsk was a major European port. Though it declined in use by the 18th century, it became part of the National Maritime Museum after World War II and remains a rare example of medieval port technology in Europe.

There was a reconstruction during the last few years, which...