St. John's Church, Gdansk

Saint John's Church, constructed in the 14th century, is a significant example of Gothic ecclesiastical architecture in Gdańsk. The church was heavily damaged in World War II and underwent reconstruction in the 1950s and 1980s. Initially serving as a religious site, the church's function transformed over the years. After the war, it remained unused until 1991 when the Gdansk Archdiocese of the Roman Catholic Church acquired it from the State Treasury.

In 1995, a pivotal change occurred when The Baltic Sea Cultural Centre, through an agreement with the Archdiocese of Gdansk, took over the administration of Saint John's Church. This led to the establishment of the Renovation of Saint John’s Office, initiating a series of works that revitalized the church. Today, Saint John's Church is not only a historic monument but also a bustling International Culture Centre.

The church's architectural design is quintessentially Gothic, characteristic of Gdańsk's ecclesiastical structures built during the 14th and 15th centuries. It boasts a hall layout with a transept and is noted for its massive structure, including interior buttresses and a tall tower in the western section. Historically, it was the second parish church in Main Town, rivaling Saint Mary's Church in its lavish interior decorations.

Despite the damages it suffered, Saint John's Church retains many original artworks. Among these is the stone main altar, a masterpiece crafted by Abraham van den Block, showcasing the artistic richness of the church.

As a contemporary cultural hub, Saint John's Church now hosts a variety of cultural events, such as exhibitions, concerts, festivals, film screenings, and more. The integration of high-tech equipment allows for a broad range of cultural activities, enhancing the visitor experience and blending tradition with modernity.