Arsenal in Stargard

The Stargard Arsenal, also known as the Armory, is a historic building located in the southern part of the Old Town, dating back to around 1500. It measures 12.3 meters by 16.5 meters and features distinctive walls adorned with decorative diamond patterns made of clinker bricks, reminiscent of similar elements found in the Red Sea Tower. Initially a single-story structure, the building was later converted into two levels, with the ground floor serving as an armory and the upper floor housing a military equipment workshop. After a fire in 1635, the arsenal underwent a thorough reconstruction, which included the addition of a vaulted ceiling supported by hexagonal pillars, though the structure was simplified back to a single story. In the 19th century, the building was repurposed as a prison. Unfortunately, during World War I, the arsenal was destroyed, and its reconstruction did not take place until 1936. However, World War II brought further destruction. The building was finally rebuilt between 1974 and 1977, with its interior adapted to house the State Archives. The Stargard Arsenal is a unique example of historical architecture in Pomerania, as no other buildings of similar purpose have survived in the region, making it an exceptional landmark.