Part of the National Maritime Museum , the oh-so conspicuous Gdańsk
Crane (Żuraw) rises above the waterfront. Built in the mid-15th century
as the biggest double-towered gate on the shoreline, it also served to
shift heavy cargo directly onto vessels docked at the quay. Incredibly,
this people-powered device could hoist loads of up to 2000kg, making it
the largest crane in medieval Europe. Early-17th-century wheels were
added higher up for installing masts.
Blasted to pieces in 1945,
everything was carefully put back together in the postwar decades,
making it the only fully restored relic of its kind in the world. Inside
you’ll find exhibits relating to the history of shipping, plus a
collection of shells, coral and other marine life; English notes are
available on laminated sheets. You can also climb up into the section
overlooking the water and have a closer look at the hoisting gear (but
sadly not a go on the wheel)
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