Neptune's Fountain

Neptune's Fountain is one of the most famous attractions of Gdansk's Old Town. The monument to the Roman god of clouds and rain is located at Długi Targ Square, on the grounds of the beautiful, historic Artus Court, adjacent to the City Hall. To this day it is seen as a symbol of the city's close relationship with the sea. The sculpture was made in the early 17th century by the renowned Mannerist architect Abraham van der Blocke, commissioned by Mayor Bartholomew Schachmann. The statue's head faces forward towards the charming Danzig townhouses, which were inhabited by various rulers when they resided in Danzig. For this reason, Neptune's head is inclined in a nodding gesture towards the facades of the buildings. The brass grating surrounding the fountain with the golden coats of arms of Gdansk and Polish eagles dates back to 1634. The fountain is most impressive at night, but it is worth bearing in mind that the area can be very crowded on summer evenings. It is interesting to note that in Kashubia the Gdansk Neptune is known as Krësztof. According to local legend, anyone who comes to Gdansk for the first time is obliged to kiss the sculpture below the line of his back.