The focal point of Długi Targ, the Long Market, is the Neptune Fountain, a bronze statue of the Roman sea god. It was constructed in 1617 to design by Flemish Architect Abraham van den Blocke, who was responsible for other notable landmarks in Gdańsk Old Town such as nearby Artus Court, The Golden House and The Royal Granary. The statue was converted to a fountain in 1633. The Neptune statue was cast in Augsburg by Peter Husen and Johann Rogge. In 1634 the fountain was encompassed by a fence decorated with gilded Polish Eagles, also designed by Van Den Blocke. During WWII, this symbol of Gdańsk was dismantled and hidden with many of the city's other treasures. It was only returned to its rightful place in 1954 and, after nearly 60 years of accumulating rust and pidgeon droppings, was finally restored in 2011/12!
Neptune Fountain at the centre of Long Market (Długi Targ) with Artus Court behind on the left. Photo by @pani_z_klasa_
The Old Town 'square' itself, as the name Long Market would suggest, is actually more of a strip in shape. This alone makes it one of the most unique central market spaces in Europe. is surrounded by colourful and ornate houses which look magnificent when the sun is beating off their decorated walls. These buildings used to be home to Gdańsk's richest, most elite residents and was used for assemblies. Executions took place on the square in front of Artus Court, close to the Neptun Statue. The Long Market is connected to Long Street (Ul. Długa) and is the second half of a parade route known as The Royal Way.
The Long Market (Długi Targ) the unique market 'square' and main street of Gdańsk Old Town. At the east end is the Green Gate. Photo by Dominik Paszliński.
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