Ruins with a History - The Pod Zrębem Bastion

The Pod Zrębem Bastion is one of the last remnants of the once powerful fortifications that surrounded medieval Gdańsk. Built in 1487 as the culmination of the defensive system of the Old Town, the bastion initially played a key role in the defense of the city. Its distinctive semi-circular shape with one cut-off wall, as well as its ceramic conical roof with dormers and a shooting gallery, made it a recognizable element of the city's landscape. The bastion owes its name to the unique shape of its roof, resembling a zręb - a structure used for drying wood. In the 16th century, with the development of artillery, the bastion was rebuilt, which weakened its structure. After the construction of new fortifications in the 17th century, it lost its military significance and was used as a warehouse.

Despite numerous destructions and the passage of time, the bastion has survived to this day, albeit in ruins. As a result of neglect and lack of maintenance, in the 1970s, there were significant collapses of the structure. Currently, secured against further damage, it is a valuable testament to the rich history of Gdańsk and its military past.