Why Gdańsk?
Gdańsk, capital of Amber
The oldest traces of amber workshops in Gdańsk date back to the end of the 10th century. By then, amber goods and the mineral in its raw form were sold to other cities in Poland and Flanders. The 17th and 18th centuries mark the heyday of amber handicraft in Gdańsk, with local workshops crafting numerous amber art pieces commissioned by rich townspeople, nobility, clergy and kings of Poland. Artefacts made here reached royal courts all across Europe and were considered the most valuable diplomatic gifts for popes, tsars, sultans and caliphs, as well as the rulers of the greatest European nations.
Gdańsk is known as the World Capital of Amber and concentrates more than 70% of the world’s amber manufacture. Gdańsk-made products stand out with their contemporary form and are known for being of the highest quality. Every year, Gdańsk hosts Amberif and Ambermart, the most important trade fairs in the amber industry, as well as the Forum of the Amber Route Cities and meetings of the World Amber Council.
CAFÉS
My favorite cafés in Gdańsk
Spokój Café
Calm Café in the Oliwa Park in Gdańsk. It is located in the conservatory of the palm house.
Address:
Opata Rybińskiego 12C
What I like about it
This is one of the best brunch spots in Gdańsk but if you go at any time of day there will be something delicious on the menu!
W starym kadrze
Combines love for coffee and movies. From the first day of operation, they organize free film screenings.
Address:
Lawendowa 2/3
What I like about it
It's tiny! Not always easy to get a seat but it's such a cozy little place, the food is always tasty and the staff are so friendly.
Kotka Café
Apart from pampering guests with home-made cake and delicious coffee, the café is a Temporary House and aims to provide direct help to animals.
Address:
Polanki 124d
What I like about it
The owners are incredibly friendly and chatty. It has the best coffee in Gdańsk!