Monument to the Defenders of the Coast
A poignant monument honoring the heroic defense of the Gdańsk Post Office by Polish postal workers in 1939. A symbol of courage.
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Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Monument to the Defenders of the Coast
Best Time
To visit the museum
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant monument honoring the heroic defense of the Gdańsk Post Office by Polish postal workers in 1939. A symbol of courage.
"Very peaceful and quiet place. Beautiful monument and old post office building."
Research the History
The monument is moving, but understanding the events of Sept 1, 1939, enhances the experience .
Check Museum Hours
Visit during museum hours to get the full story; otherwise, you'll only see the exterior .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Monument Itself
A powerful and evocative memorial honoring the bravery of the Polish postal workers. A must-see for history buffs.
Old Post Office Building
Adjacent to the monument, this historic building adds to the atmosphere and context of the site.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Despite its somber history, the monument offers a quiet and reflective space within the city.
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Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Research the History
The monument is moving, but understanding the events of Sept 1, 1939, enhances the experience.
Check Museum Hours
Visit during museum hours to get the full story; otherwise, you'll only see the exterior.
Beware with Kids
The monument is climbable, so keep a close eye on small children to ensure their safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
Research the History
The monument is moving, but understanding the events of Sept 1, 1939, enhances the experience.
Check Museum Hours
Visit during museum hours to get the full story; otherwise, you'll only see the exterior.
Beware with Kids
The monument is climbable, so keep a close eye on small children to ensure their safety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Monument to the Defenders of the Coast to be a peaceful and evocative memorial, deeply moving due to its historical significance. While the monument itself is accessible, some note that the story is best understood by visiting the museum, which has limited hours. It's a poignant reminder of bravery and sacrifice.
"Very peacefull and quiet place. Beatifull monument and old post office building. Placed inside normal Gdańsk housing area makes even biggest contrast of new and historical views."
m_ afol
"Excellent memorial, very evocative. Well worth googling the events here - the signage leaves a bit of the story out. I imagine the museum tells the full story, but we arrived after hours. With small kids, the memorial is very climbable, so beware."
Christopher Hawkins
"The "Defenders of the Polish Post Office" refers to a group of Polish postal workers who heroically defended the Gdańsk Post Office during the invasion of Poland by Germany on September 1, 1939. Located in the Free City of Gdańsk, the post office symbolized Polish sovereignty.
Around 50 defenders, including postal workers and a few military personnel, resisted a much larger force of about 200 German troops equipped with heavy weapons. Despite their bravery and tactical advantage, the defenders were ultimately overwhelmed, and the post office was captured. Many were killed or taken prisoner.
This event has become a symbol of Polish courage and resilience during World War II and is commemorated through monuments and memorials in Gdańsk."
Yarys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is located within a normal Gdańsk housing area, making it accessible by public transport or a short taxi ride from the city center. It's integrated into the urban landscape, offering a contrast between new and historical views.
Parking availability can vary as it's situated in a residential area. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider public transport for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The monument itself is an outdoor memorial and generally accessible without a ticket. However, the adjacent museum has specific opening hours and may require admission.
The monument is an outdoor memorial and can be viewed at any time. The museum located nearby has specific operating hours, which are best checked in advance if you wish to visit it.
There is typically no entrance fee for viewing the monument itself, as it's an open public space. The museum may have an admission charge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It commemorates the heroic defense of the Gdańsk Post Office by Polish postal workers against German forces on September 1, 1939, symbolizing Polish courage and resilience during WWII.
While the monument is a place of historical significance, it is also very climbable, so parents should supervise young children closely to ensure their safety.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the monument. It's a popular spot for capturing historical and evocative imagery.
A short visit to view the monument and its surroundings can take about 30 minutes. If you plan to visit the museum, allow an additional hour or more.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
As the monument is located within a residential area, you'll find local eateries and cafes a short walk away. For a wider selection, head back towards Gdańsk's city center.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the monument's imposing structure against the sky, the contrast with the surrounding urban environment, and the details of the memorial plaques. The old post office building also offers great photographic potential.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for dramatic shots of the monument. Midday offers clear views but can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the monument itself is accessible, the adjacent museum might offer more engaging content for older children. Visiting during museum hours could enhance the educational aspect of your trip. Remember, it's a place of remembrance, so fostering a respectful atmosphere is also important.
🤔 History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance
The defenders, numbering around 50, faced approximately 200 German troops. Their heroic stand, detailed in historical accounts, highlights their determination against overwhelming odds. Visiting the monument offers a chance to connect with this significant historical event and reflect on the sacrifices made. Many visitors find the site deeply moving and encourage others to research the events beforehand to fully grasp the context.
While the monument is a standalone memorial, the adjacent old post office building adds a tangible connection to the past. Though the museum may offer more in-depth information, the monument and its setting provide a powerful, albeit somber, experience for any visitor interested in WWII history.
Visiting with Families
Beyond the safety aspect, the monument offers a unique opportunity to introduce children to a significant piece of history. It's recommended to briefly explain the story of the postal workers' bravery beforehand, tailoring the explanation to their age. This can help them understand the solemnity and importance of the site, transforming it from just a structure into a meaningful landmark.
Consider visiting during the day when the museum is open, as it might offer exhibits or information that can further engage older children. However, even a brief visit to the monument itself can be a powerful learning experience, fostering an early appreciation for historical events and the courage of those who defended their homeland.
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