Located on the Dlugi Targ Square in Gdansk, the Artus Court is an impressive building that has long been a popular stop for visitors. It’s named after the medieval legend of King Arthur, which symbolizes the chivalrous, brotherly ideals that were espoused in the Arthurian legends. Dated back to the 14-centuries, Artus Court is the only building of its kind to have survived to date. For centuries, this lavish mansion served as a meeting place for the local elite, rich merchants and aristocrats. Among the most distinguished guests was King Henry IV of England.
Despite being destroyed during WWII, Artus Court was painstakingly restored from old photographs and historical records. Today, the building houses a museum, which displays exquisite ornamental furniture, numerous paintings, statues, models of ships, and other works of art throughout. Walk into the massive hall, you will be captivated by the detailed carvings in the woodwork and the large murals on the walls. The most eye-catching masterpiece is a massive Renaissance tiled stove, which is 10.64-meter tall and almost touching the ceiling, reputedly the highest stove of its kind in Europe. The stove is decorated with 520 colorful tiles, with the effigies of kings and allegorical characters, which make it a unique art treasure.
Artus Court is one of the most splendid mansions in Gdansk and well worth a visit. If you are planning to visit Gdansk, be sure to stop by here! ?
