GDYNIA, POLAND

Following a journey of approximately one-hour we arrive in GdaÅ„sk – a city which suffered greatly during World War II but now restored to its full splendour. The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.

Following a journey of approximately one-hour we arrive in GdaÅ„sk – a city which suffered greatly during World War II but now restored to its full splendour. The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. GdaÅ„sk is probably best known as the place where the Solidarity Movement began, in 1980, at one of the largest shipyards in Poland. Our tour will include a drive by the Solidarity Monument – a memorial to the shipyard workers killed in riots in 1970, and a symbol of the fight for freedom. This striking monument is 42 metres (137 feet) high and is composed of three crosses with anchors representing faith and hope.

Upon arrival in GdaÅ„sk Old Town, our guided walk will start near the Golden Gate – a grand ornamental arch that once allowed access through the medieval city’s defensive walls. We will then continue down Long Street, which is lined with marvellous buildings decorated with elaborate façades and crowned by a myriad of ornate gables. Passing the Gothic-style Town Hall and Long Market, we then see the beautiful 15th century merchants’ palace of Artus Court. We pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of GdaÅ„sk’s Hanseatic past. Next we turn into the cobbled Mariacka (St Mary’s) Street, which delights visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops, swish boutiques, jewellery shops and galleries.

Here we can visit St Mary’s Church, or Church of Our Lady – possibly the largest brick built church in the world, capable of holding up to 25,000 people. Situated in the centre of the Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The high altar displays a lovely polyptych, the floor is covered with ancient tombstones and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th century astronomical clock complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints.

Rejoining our coach, we will travel to Oliwa Cathedral for an organ recital. Located in the grounds of an old Cistercian monastery, the Oliwa Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is a mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Rococo styles. The impressive complex of three organs (the biggest of which is considered to be one of the largest in Europe) consists of over 7,800 tin and wood pipes which can imitate sounds of different musical instruments and natural voices and sounds. We will be treated to a brief musical performance. A perfect way to round off the day.

TOUR NOTES: Please note that the distance covered on the walking tour is approximately two and a half kilometres (one and a half miles). The route actually followed may vary from that described. There are a few steps to negotiate and cobblestones in Mariacka Street. There is also uneven ground and eight steps to enter the Cathedral. It is possible that you may have to stand to listen to the performance, and it should be noted that a collection will take place during the recital – towards the upkeep of the organ. This tour is not suitable for passengers with limited mobility. We should have free time of approximately 30 minutes, in the Old Town of GdaÅ„sk.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2009 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON