Medieval Town of Toruń in Poland

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Torun Home Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1997
Size of heritage: 48 ha
- Buffer zone: 300 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 18,619°
Latitude: 53,010°

Summary

Torun owes its origins to the Teutonic Order, which built a castle there in the mid-13th century as a base for the conquest and evangelization of Prussia. It soon developed a commercial role as part of the Hanseatic League. In the Old and New Town, the many imposing public and private buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries (among them the house of Copernicus) are striking evidence of Torun's importance.

Location on Map

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Medieval Town of Toruń: A Glimpse into Poland's Rich History

The Medieval Town of Toruń, located in the City and County of Toruń in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodship of Poland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a captivating journey into the country's rich history. With its well-preserved medieval architecture and significant cultural heritage, this town has become a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

History

The history of Toruń dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Teutonic Knights. The town quickly flourished as a trading hub due to its strategic location on the Vistula River, connecting the Baltic Sea with the rest of Europe. Toruń's prosperity continued throughout the Middle Ages, attracting merchants from various parts of Europe and contributing to its architectural and cultural development.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Toruń became an important center of the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading alliance. This period witnessed the construction of numerous Gothic-style buildings, including the impressive Town Hall and the Church of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. These architectural gems still stand today, showcasing the town's medieval grandeur.

Over the centuries, Toruń faced various challenges, including wars and fires, but managed to preserve its unique character. In the 19th century, the town became part of Prussia and later Germany, before being returned to Poland after World War I. Despite these political changes, Toruń's architectural heritage remained intact.

Current State

Today, the Medieval Town of Toruń stands as a testament to its glorious past. The town's historic center, encompassing an area of approximately 19 hectares, is a well-preserved example of a medieval trading settlement. Its narrow streets, lined with colorful merchant houses, create an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

The most iconic landmark in Toruń is its Town Hall, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. With its soaring tower and intricate details, it serves as a symbol of the town's former wealth and power. Inside, the Town Hall houses the Toruń Regional Museum, which exhibits a vast collection of artifacts and artworks that shed light on the town's history.

Another notable attraction is the Church of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, a magnificent Gothic basilica. Its interior is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Aside from its architectural treasures, Toruń is also famous for being the birthplace of the renowned astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. The Copernicus House Museum, located in the heart of the town, offers visitors a chance to explore the life and work of this influential figure through interactive exhibits and displays.

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
Ul. Leona Szumana 8
87-100 Torun
Poland

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Rajder - Toruń trasa egzaminacyjna - zawracanie na rondzie Pokoju Toruńskiego - Kurs jazdy 2014

Published: June 21, 2014
Length: 51:55 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Rajder Toruń

Wjazd na rondo z zamiarem zawrócenia wykonujemy w następujący sposób: - dojeżdżamy do ronda z włączonym lewym kierunkowskazem - zajmujemy lewy pas ruchu, - ustępujemy pierwszeństwa...

Koncert BRACIA 6.01.2014 Toruń

Published: January 06, 2014
Length: 32:57 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: WielkiSowa

Koncert na Rynku Nowomiejskim w Toruniu 6.01.2014 Toruń.

Vistula River, Toruń, Kuyavian-Pomeranian, Poland, Europe

Published: August 11, 2013
Length: 34:38 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Pietro Pecco

The Vistula is the longest river in Poland, at 1047 km (651 miles) in length. The watershed area of the Vistula is 194424 km2 (75068 sq mi), of which 168699 km2 (65135 sq mi) lies within...