Refectory of the Dominican monastery in Gdańsk

The refectory of the Dominican monastery in Gdańsk, known as the Romanesque Cellar, is a significant historical monument discovered in 2005. Dating back to the mid- or third quarter of the 13th century, it is the oldest preserved cuboid interior in Gdańsk. It features unique architecture, including a vault with four elliptical fields supported on pendentives and a central pillar, reflecting the innovative construction solutions of the Romanesque era. Covering an area of 52 m², it is located on the low ground floor, about 1 meter below ground level, in the Main Town, between St. Nicholas Church and the Market Hall. Despite numerous renovations, most of its structure has been preserved in good condition. The refectory was initially buried underground, and plans to backfill it were canceled due to public opposition and the intervention of the Ministry of Culture, leading to its effective renovation with funding of 5 million PLN. Archaeological work that led to the discovery of this valuable site began in 2005, and on December 31, 2014, the refectory was opened to the public as a new branch of the Archaeological Museum in Gdańsk, thereby enriching the cultural and historical resources of the region. The Romanesque Cellar not only marks an important architectural landmark in Gdańsk but also stands as a testament to the historical heritage of the Dominican Order and the development of Gdańsk as a significant center in medieval Europe.