Ratusz Staromiejski w Toruniu

The Old Town Hall in Toruń is one of the largest brick buildings of its kind in Europe and the most important monument of Toruń's Old Town. This Gothic landmark stands in the middle of the Old Town Market Square and today serves as the main seat of the District Museum in Toruń.

How was the town hall built?

The complex grew in stages across the 13th and 14th centuries. The oldest part is the tower, raised well before the rest of the building was finished and later made taller and crowned with a metal helmet. The wings and halls were added towards the end of the 14th century, forming a square building around an inner courtyard. For centuries it was the seat of the city authorities and the commercial heart of town. Fairs were held nearby, oaths of allegiance to rulers were sworn, knightly tournaments took place, and at times public executions were carried out in front of it.

What did Mannerism change?

Between 1602 and 1603 the town hall was thoroughly rebuilt to a design by the Flemish architect Antoni van Oppergen. The building gained an extra storey and stone decoration: gables, corner turrets and window frames. Despite these changes, the Gothic character of the whole remained clear, which is why the town hall is regarded as one of the finest examples of medieval burgher architecture in Central Europe. The building suffered damage in the 18th century and was subsequently rebuilt.

What was it like inside in the past?

The ground floor housed merchants' stalls: a cloth hall, bread benches and dozens of small shops, along with a courtroom. The upper floor belonged to the city government. It held the council chamber and the great Burghers' Hall, where Polish kings were regularly entertained during their visits to Toruń.

What can you see in the museum?

The permanent exhibitions introduce the city's history and art:

• the Gallery of Gothic Art,
• the Court Room,
• "Old Toruń: History and Artistic Craftsmanship 1233-1793",
• the Burghers' Hall with a gallery of burgher portraits from the 16th to 18th centuries,
• the Royal Hall with the "Procession of Polish Kings" exhibition.

The building also hosts celebrations, cultural events and gatherings, so it is worth checking the current programme during your visit.

Can you climb the tower?

Yes. The tower, about 40 metres tall, offers views over the Old Town rooftops, the market square, the Gothic churches and the course of the Vistula. It is one of the best viewpoints in central Toruń, and the climb up the stairs gives you a feel for the thickness of the medieval walls.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Old Town Hall? On the Old Town Market Square, in the heart of Toruń's Old Town complex. It is hard to miss on a walk through the historic centre.

What architectural style is it? Mainly Gothic, with Mannerist additions from the early 17th century such as gables, corner turrets and stone window frames.

What is inside? The main seat of the District Museum in Toruń, with a Gothic art gallery, a court room, an exhibition about old Toruń and the representative halls.

How long should I plan for a visit? Around two hours is a good allowance for the exhibitions and the tower, longer if you like reading every label and taking your time.

Is it a good place to start exploring the city? Yes. The square around the town hall is a natural starting point for a stroll among the Old Town's monuments, and the interiors are a good introduction to Toruń's history.