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Neptune's Fountain

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Neptune's Fountain (Poland)

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Neptune's Fountain is a historic masterpiece located in the heart of Gdańsk's Long Market, standing as an enduring symbol of the city's maritime heritage. Designed by architect Abraham van den Blocke and cast in bronze by Peter Husen and Johann Rogge, the fountain was officially inaugurated in 1633. The central figure depicts the Roman god of the sea holding a trident, mounted upon a pedestal adorned with sea creatures and the coat of arms of Gdańsk. During the Second World War, the monument was disassembled and hidden to protect it from destruction, eventually returning to its original location in 1954. The intricate iron railing surrounding the basin was added in 1634 and features decorative motifs including the Polish eagle. Today, the fountain remains a focal point for visitors, illustrating the wealth and artistic ambition of the city during the Golden Age. It serves as a testimony to the technical and aesthetic achievements of 17th-century European craftsmanship.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-102711161819151052
Rain mm584244365558867163676965

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Neptune's Fountain is freely accessible on Długi Targ in Gdańsk. You can view it from outside at any time. As an outdoor monument, there is no interior to enter.
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Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, it is accessible 24/7. No opening hours apply. It is well-lit at night, making for a nice evening view.
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Photography
Photography is allowed anytime without restrictions. The fountain is a popular photo spot. Avoid backlight in the late afternoon for best shots.
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Time needed
Just the fountain takes a few minutes. Allow extra time for the surrounding Długi Targ and Artus Court. Total 15-30 minutes is sufficient.
Combine with
Combine with the Artus Court right behind it. St. Mary's Church and the waterfront promenade are also within walking distance. The entire Gdańsk Old Town gives many sights.
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Getting there
The fountain is centrally located on Długi Targ in Gdańsk's Old Town. Easily reachable on foot from most places. By tram or bus, get off at 'Długi Targ' stop.
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Insider tip
Visit early in the morning when it's quiet. The lighting is especially atmospheric in the evening. Watch out for the many pigeons gathering in the square.

Geography

Coordinates
54.34860, 18.65330

Facts

  • The bronze statue of Neptune weighs approximately 650 kilograms.
  • The fountain was officially activated on October 9, 1633.
  • In 1761, Johann Karl Stender renovated the fountain basin in a Rococo style.
  • Neptune's trident was completely replaced during the 1954 restoration project.
  • The water supply was originally gravity-fed from a reservoir in the City Hall tower.
  • The monument is illuminated at night by a sophisticated LED lighting system.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Neptune's Fountain (10)

Fontanna Neptuna

Artistic fountain in Gdańsk, symbol of the city, built in the 17th century.

Sień Gdańska

Historic hall in Gdańsk, representative room of a patrician house.

Artus Court🏛 museum

Building in Gdańsk, former meeting place of merchants, now a museum.

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Złota Kamienica

House in Gdańsk, richly decorated 17th-century facade on Long Market.

Ratusz Głównego Miasta

Town hall of the Main City in Gdańsk, Gothic-Renaissance building with observation tower.

Museum of Gdansk🏛 museum

Landmark in Gdańsk, museum of city history housed in several historic buildings.

Gdańska Galeria Miejska 1

Municipal gallery in Gdańsk, exhibitions of contemporary art.

Strefa historyczna Wolne Miasto Gdańsk🏛 museum

Museum of the history of the Free City of Gdańsk, historical zone.

Galeria ZPAP

Gallery of the Polish Artists' Union in Gdańsk, temporary exhibitions.

Green Gate

Old water gate in Gdańsk, one of the city's most notable tourist attractions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the Neptune Fountain built?
The statue was cast in 1615, and the fountain was officially opened in 1633.
What is the legend of Goldwasser?
Legend says Neptune once turned the fountain's water into herbal liqueur with gold flakes.
Where exactly is the fountain located?
It stands on the Long Market (Długi Targ) right in front of Artus Court.
Does the fountain operate year-round?
The water flows only during the summer season, usually from April to October.
Why is there a fence around the fountain?
The ornate iron fence from 1634 was added to protect the sculpture from damage.
Neptune's Fountain: where is it located?
Neptune's Fountain is located in Poland.
Neptune's Fountain: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fontanna Neptuna, Sień Gdańska, Artus Court.
Neptune's Fountain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Neptune's Fountain: why is it worth visiting?
Neptune's Fountain is a historic masterpiece located in the heart of Gdańsk's Long Market, standing as an enduring symbol of the city's maritime heritage.
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