Due to a lively trade of Baltic amber in the Middle Ages, the Polish city of Gdansk quickly became the largest thriving port of the country. Despite the destruction of cultural and historical sites during the Second World War, the citizens of Gdansk restored the heritage of ancestors and presented this splendor to descendants. Magnificent architectural monuments, fountains, and sculptures of the Renaissance period still adorn the cobbled streets.

To see most landmarks of Gdansk, you should follow the Royal Way (Trakt Krolewski) of the former monarchs. The most exciting tourist route was once the longest street in medieval Europe. The triumphal procession of kings, parades, and festivals went along this road. Starting from the Upland Gate, the royal entourage was passing by the place for public torture named Katownia and the Court of the Brotherhood of St. George, through the Golden Gate, along the main street, Ulica Dluga. At this time, citizens flooded this street of noble houses.

As a rule, the passage took the whole day. The procession often stopped to enjoy performances of street artists, talented musicians, and fearless tightrope walkers. Sometimes there were jousting tournaments right on the Royal Way. Facades of mansions were of equal interest. Each of them tried to surpass other buildings in luxury. The famous Schumann and Ferber houses, the Uphagen House opened for tourists, and the so-called Lions’ Castle, still make the central street beautiful. In the past, they hosted dinner parties and cultural evenings attended by the king himself.

Then, the road led to the Main Town Hall, where burgomasters discussed their business. The entourage and jubilant crowd went to Dlugi Targ, the city center headed by the magnificent Artus Court.

Today, a walk along the Royal Way is over at the Green Gate, but centuries ago, the procession continued moving towards the Zulawy Gate where servants and faithful knights could dismount and do their thing.