Amber Museum

Overview

The Amber Museum (Muzeum Bursztynu) is dedicated to Baltic amber — the 'Gold of the North' — and is housed in the Great Mill (Wielki Młyn), the largest medieval industrial building in Europe. The museum explores amber's natural history, its role in Gdańsk's economy, and showcases exquisite amber artworks spanning centuries.

Highlights

• Amber Inclusions: Fossils of prehistoric insects trapped in 40-million-year-old amber.
• Amber Road: An exhibition tracing the ancient amber trade routes from the Baltic to the Mediterranean.
• Great Mill Building: The 14th-century brick mill itself, with its massive water-wheel machinery.

History

The Great Mill was built by the Teutonic Knights in 1350 and operated for nearly 600 years. The amber museum moved here after renovation in 2021, replacing its former location in the Prison Tower.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The museum shop sells authenticated amber pieces — a reliable place to buy genuine Baltic amber.
• Tip 2: Combine with a walk through the Old Town to see St. Catherine's Church nearby.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.