Anchorite's Tower

The Anchor-Smiths' Tower, also known as Ankerschmiedeturm, is a historic defensive tower located in Gdańsk, on the Starą Motławą River, near Podwale Przedmiejskie. It was built in 1361 on a square plan as part of Gdańsk's southern fortifications, intended to protect the shipyard. Over time, after the outer ring of fortifications was moved, it lost its military significance. Between 1570 and 1575, the tower was rebuilt by Paulus van der Horne, who transformed it into a prison for dangerous criminals, highlighting its changing roles in the city's history. In 1865, it began serving as the main police detention center for the Main Town. During World War II, the tower was almost completely destroyed, losing its roof and most of its internal structural elements, but it was rebuilt between 1968 and 1969. In 1975, the building became the headquarters of the Office for Research and Documentation of Monuments, and today it is rented by an organization that edits monthly publications, including "Przegląd Polityczny" and the Polish-German "Dialog." Despite the many changes in its history, the Anchor-Smiths' Tower remains an important landmark connected to Gdańsk's cultural heritage. An interesting aspect is its centuries-long history, where military and prison functions intertwined with its role as a research institution, as well as its location on the Motława River, which adds to the charm of this historic site.