Westerplatte Guide
A Place of Remembrance: Reflect on History at Westerplatte Guide
Westerplatte is a peninsula in Gdańsk that holds immense historical significance as the site where World War II began. On September 1, 1939, German forces attacked the Polish military transit depot located there, marking the start of the war. Today, Westerplatte stands as a memorial to the Polish soldiers who bravely defended their post against overwhelming odds. A visit to Westerplatte is a somber but essential experience for anyone interested in history. The defense of Westerplatte lasted for seven days, during which a small garrison of Polish soldiers held off a much larger German force. Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the Polish soldiers fought valiantly, becoming symbols of Polish resistance. The ruins of the barracks, the guardhouses, and the monument to the defenders serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made during the war. The site has been carefully preserved to maintain its historical integrity. Visitors can explore the grounds of Westerplatte, including the ruins of the barracks, the guardhouses, and the cemetery where the defenders are buried. The iconic monument, a towering structure overlooking the sea, is a powerful symbol of Polish resilience. There is also a museum that provides detailed information about the events that took place at Westerplatte. While there are no specific culinary traditions associated with Westerplatte itself, you can find restaurants and cafes in nearby Gdańsk offering traditional Polish cuisine.
Transportation
You can reach Westerplatte by bus or ferry. Bus line 106 goes directly to Westerplatte from Gdańsk city center. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the Old Town to Westerplatte, which offers a scenic route along the Motława River and the Gdańsk harbor.