Ulica Mariacka, regarded as Gdańsk’s finest street, runs eastwards from the
Church of St Mary to Długie Pobrzeże, terminating at the Mariacka Gate on the
riverfront. Rebuilt from the ruins that resulted from World War II, the street
contains outstanding examples of traditional Gdańsk architecture. Here, town
houses that were once owned by wealthy merchants and goldsmiths have tall,
richly ornamented façades; others are fronted by external raised terraces with
ornamented parapets. It is small wonder that this picturesque street has for
centuries inspired writers and artists.

The neighbourly porch gossip that once upon a time filled the evening air is
sadly no more. Today, however, the street is a favourite haunt of lovers as well
as tourists, most of whom are looking for picturesque subjects to photograph or
browsing through the amber jewellery for which Ulica Mariacka is now celebrated.
During the long summer evenings, a number of musicians provide free open-air
concerts, and the welcoming street cafés stay open until late at night.