A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, whose beauty was the source of wonderment for the Polish kings, rises above the central square of Gdansk in the middle of the Royal Way. Built in 1350, the architectural ensemble Artus Court consists of three historic buildings: the Old Bench House, the New Bench House, and the Artus Court. The court got its original name after King Arthur from the legend about the Knights of the Round Table. The name became common in medieval England and then spread throughout Europe. Every large city of Poland had its own Artus Court, but the Gdansk court was considered the most famous and beautiful. This place became a cultural center and a venue for aristocrats and bourgeois, which was open for the chosen only. The king himself often became a guest of honor at a dinner party of its residents. Singers, musicians, jugglers, and tightrope walkers gathered here in the evenings. People often gambled and placed bets. There were also artists and art dealers: other vendors were not allowed here.

Unfortunately, a fire destroyed the original building. The current Artus Court was built in 1481, but its splendid Gothic rear facade preserved the initial appearance. The frontage was created by the talented architect and sculptor of the Renaissance, Abraham van den Blocke. However, no solemn image is a match for the interior included numerous canvases of well-known artists, models of legendary ships, knights’ armor, and the main treasure – the world-largest glazed tile stove over 12 meters high. The unique stove of the 16th century is made in the Renaissance style and decorated with delicately ornamented painted tiles. Today the noted architectural complex, including the courtyard, is a part of the Gdansk History Museum and opened to the public.