The crane's wooden mechanism is driven by two pairs of treadwheels powered by human weight.
It functioned as a defensive gate, with the two towers enclosing the mechanism to protect the harbor.
During the 14th and 15th centuries, it was capable of lifting loads up to two tons to a height of 11 meters.
The structure was severely damaged in 1945 during World War II and underwent significant reconstruction.
It is the only surviving medieval harbor crane in Europe that still retains its functional lifting mechanism.
The interior layout includes a reconstruction of a merchant's apartment to showcase 17th and 18th-century living standards.
The Crane (Żuraw) is a medieval harbor crane located on the Motława River in Gdańsk, serving as both a port crane and a city gate. Originally built in the 15th century, it is the oldest preserved medieval crane in Europe. The structure consists of two brick towers and a timber housing containing a large treadwheel mechanism. During its operational years, the internal human-powered treadwheels lifted heavy cargo and helped install ship masts. It is a branch of the National Maritime Museum and houses exhibitions explaining the history of the port and trade. The internal mechanism remains largely intact, demonstrating 15th-century maritime engineering. It is a landmark symbol of Gdańsk's historical significance as a major Hanseatic League trading hub. The interior exhibits detail how the crane functioned to transfer goods between the quays and river vessels.
From the opposite bank of the Motława River, near the Ołowianka island footbridge, for a clear view of the entire structure.
Walk the entire length of the Motława embankment for different angles of the facade.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the dense summer crowds on the narrow wooden walkways.
Check the official website for temporary exhibitions, as the museum often updates its display scope.
Do not overlook the small exhibition rooms on the lower levels, as most visitors rush to see only the mechanism at the top.
Closed on certain Mondays during the off-season; check official site for seasonal adjustments.
