Lublin Krakowska Gate

The Lublin Krakowska Gate, known locally as Brama Krakowska w Lublinie, stands as a proud sentinel at the entrance to Lublin's Old Town, a historical symbol of the city. This imposing structure, with its origins dating back to the 14th century, has witnessed centuries of history and transformation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Lublin.

The History of Lublin Krakowska Gate

The Lublin Krakowska Gate was constructed in the mid-14th century as part of the defensive walls that encircled Lublin, a response to the Tatar invasion of 1341. Originally, the gate was a simple Gothic structure with a crenellated top and a high, pointed roof. It was one of only two main gates in the city walls, the other being the Grodzka Gate, and it played a crucial role in protecting Lublin from invaders.

In the 15th century, the gate underwent significant modifications, including the addition of an upper octagonal section and a copper helmet that crowned the tower. The structure was also adorned with a new arrangement of bricks, creating diagonal stripes that added to its visual appeal. Despite suffering damage from fires in 1515 and 1575, the gate was rebuilt and fortified, with a barbican added to enhance its defensive capabilities.

By the 16th century, the Lublin Krakowska Gate had become more than just a defensive structure. It housed galleries for musicians and trumpeters who entertained the townspeople, and it featured a city clock that regulated daily life. The square in front of the gate emerged as the main commercial center of Lublin, bustling with trade and activity.

However, the gate's importance began to wane in the 17th century as its condition deteriorated. By 1656, Lublin did not even attempt to defend itself against the Cossacks, a testament to the poor state of its fortifications. In the following years, the gate found new uses, serving as a residence for the city trumpeter, the gatekeeper, and the director of the city clock.

The Museum of the History of Lublin

Today, the Lublin Krakowska Gate houses the Museum of the History of Lublin, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the city's past. The museum's exhibits span five floors, each dedicated to a different period in Lublin's history.

On the first floor, you'll find archaeological artifacts that illustrate the earliest history of Lublin, from its origins on four hills—Staromiejskie, Zamkowe, Czwartek, and Grodzisko—to its development over the centuries. Highlights include a copy of Lublin's founding charter from 1317 and a bell from 1585.

The second floor delves into the city's history from its founding to the 17th century. Here, you can see archival documents, fragments of the oldest municipal water system, Renaissance tiles, and the Tribunal Cross from the 17th century.

The third floor covers the period from the 17th to the 19th centuries, showcasing items such as a 17th-century mural of St. Tekla, 18th-century clock tiles, symbolic city keys, and memorabilia from the November and January Uprisings. Paintings depicting Lublin at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries provide a visual narrative of the city's evolution.

The fourth floor focuses on the 19th and 20th centuries, with portraits of notable Lublin residents, advertisements from local businesses, a clock mechanism from 1903, and photographs from World War I. Artifacts from World War II, including prison-made items and identification cards, offer a poignant glimpse into this tumultuous period.

Finally, the fifth floor features photographs of pre-war Lublin and a panoramic view of the city, providing a breathtaking conclusion to the museum experience.

The Clock

The clock on the Lublin Krakowska Gate has a history spanning over 400 years, with the first timepiece installed in the mid-16th century. Historical records from the 17th century describe a large clock face visible from the city side of the gate. While it's unclear whether a face existed on the Old Town side at that time, a clock was definitely present by the 19th century.

Today, the gate features clock faces from the 19th century, with mechanisms updated in the 20th century. The clock has evolved from a mechanical device to an electric one, and now to an electronic system. The size of the mechanism has also decreased significantly, from a large cabinet to a small, hand-sized device.

In conclusion, the Lublin Krakowska Gate is not just a historical monument but a symbol of Lublin's rich and varied history. Its walls have witnessed the city's growth, its struggles, and its resilience. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the gate offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of Lublin's heritage.