Gdansk, Gdynia, Sopot - the Tricity
The Tricity, an urban complex extending along the Bay of Gdansk, is one of Poland's largest tourist attractions. Each of the cities making up the Tricity offers a different atmosphere. Gdansk is a Hanseatic town more than 1,000 years old, while the lively Sopot and Gdynia are proof of the economic spirit of the Poles who, having regained their independence in 1918 after a century and a half of occupation, took less than 10 years to build one of the greatest ports on the Baltic.

The history of the Tricity is an important element of the contemporary consciousness of every Pole: it was here that the strikes of 1970, 1980 and 1988 set in motion the destruction of the communist system.

In 1980, Lech Walesa led the strike at the Lenin Shipyard in Gdansk, which became the cradle of the Solidarity social movement. The trade-union leader went on to become the president of Poland and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

The heritage of material culture in the Tricity, despite wartime destruction, is impressive. The Main Town in Gdansk is a classic example of a Hanseatic town. The narrow facade of Mannerist houses line the streets that were once lively trading centers, and today attract tourists with their picturesque appearance. The narrow streets are full of life in all seasons. In August, crowds are attracted to the Dominican Fair. To really feel the atmosphere of old Gdansk, it's best to walk along Dluga and Nowy Targ streets, closed from both ends by spectacular gates: Zlota (Golden) and Zielona (Green). On Dlugi Targ Street is the Neptune Fountain, and behind it is the Artus Court, once the city's most important building, the centre of political life and merchant societies. Nearby is the beautiful Gothic Main Town Hall. It houses a museum displaying famous Gdansk carved furniture. The Town Hall tower is a scenic view point. Dlugi Targ Street, under the arcades of the Green Gate, will take you to Dlugie Pobrzeze - a fragment of the old Gdansk port with the characteristic Zuraw (Crane). This tourist attraction was once an important reloading station. It's located close from here to Mariacka Gate, which leads into the narrow stone-paved Mariacka Street. On its axis is Mariacka (St. Mary's) Basilica, the largest brick Gothic church in Europe.