The Gdańsk Carousel: a retro attraction in the heart of the city
- Damian Brzeski
- 5 hours ago
- 11 min read
Can something we've known for years still surprise us? Even though the Gdańsk Carousel has been spinning since 2018, it continues to delight.
It stands out not only for its two-story structure and retro style, but also for its thoughtful symbolism and local character. Why has it become more than just a city attraction – and what keeps it drawing crowds?
A small carousel that became a great attraction
How did this carousel become a favorite of Gdańsk residents and tourists almost overnight? Its debut on July 28, 2018, was an immediate media sensation.
I remember the weather wasn't great, but despite the rain, there were many people eager to take the three-minute ride. The media picked up on the story, calling it "beautiful" and designed for everyone – "not just children, but adults too."
Its success is no accident. See: official tourist portals rightly point us to the city's great heritage – places connected with World War II, the history of "Solidarity," and its impressive Gothic architecture.
However, these are topics of considerable importance that require our concentration and often deep reflection.
And the Gdańsk Carousel ? It offers something completely different. Pure, uncomplicated, aesthetic joy. In the heart of a city marked by a deep, often painful history, this attraction is a much-needed breath of fresh air, a moment of "lightness of being."
I think its popularity taps right into a key psychological need. After a day spent at the Museum of the Second World War or the European Solidarity Centre , people are looking for emotional balance.
The carousel, with its "stylish music" and galloping horses, becomes the perfect, romantic and simply carefree counterpoint.
It is also undeniable that the carousel was designed from the outset as a social media icon .
Its two-story structure, rich decorations and absolutely strategic locations (in summer the photogenic Fish Market with the Crane in the background, in winter the Coal Market) make it Instagram-ready material.
It's simply a well-thought-out city marketing strategy. The private owner, the Barbako company, has created an attraction that pays for itself, generating thousands of free, organic promotions for the city.
Every photo of the carousel with the Crane in the background is a modern postcard that travels around the world and promotes Gdańsk as a truly magical place.
What is the Gdańsk Carousel?
This question is crucial because, contrary to appearances, we are not talking about a small device.
This truly impressive two-story structure, measuring 11.5 meters high and 12 meters in diameter , is designed to accommodate up to 78 passengers simultaneously, making it a significant landmark in the city's urban landscape.
Importantly, this is a private initiative – it belongs to the “Barbako” company, represented by Anna Barbasiewicz – which, however, has perfectly integrated into the public landscape of Gdańsk.
The history of the creation of the Gdańsk Carousel
The most important fact? It was "made especially for Gdańsk." This isn't some standard, touring model that just happened to get stuck here.
We are talking about a purposeful commission, designed from start to finish with this specific city in mind.
Events unfolded rapidly. The structure arrived in Gdańsk on July 17, 2018, and assembly began immediately at the Fish Market.
The official debut took place on July 28, 2018. The timing was impeccable.
Patterns from the Venetian carousel and European city carousels
The main artistic inspiration, as has been repeatedly emphasized, was the "Venetian carousel." And this choice seems brilliantly considered.
After all, Gdańsk – with its Hanseatic history, rich merchant architecture and picturesque network of canals along the Motława River – is not called the "Venice of the North" without reason.
The use of Venetian patterns is therefore not merely an aesthetic whim. It is a very subtle, yet conscious, historical reference.
It puts Gdańsk on a par with its famous southern, maritime counterpart, strengthening the image of a city of European importance.
At the same time, the Gdańsk attraction fits into the broader trend of "urban carousels" that we know from Paris, Florence or Vienna.
Like those, it serves primarily an aesthetic function – it is an elegant, romantic detail of the urban landscape, not just a fairground entertainment.
Retro style inspired by 19th-century carousels
Although the carousel is a "brand new" object, its design draws heavily from the Belle Époque aesthetic. This retro vibe is defined by several key elements that combine to create the illusion of time travel:
Figures: Instead of modern cartoon characters, we find traditional, hand-painted sculptures. These are classic "horses, chariots, cups, and benches."
Movement: This isn't a simple rotation. The figures "gallop, sway, and spin," creating a complex, dynamic spectacle.
Music: The whole thing takes place "to the rhythm of stylish music", which cuts us off from the hustle and bustle of the city and takes us to a more romantic era.
Italian manufacture as a construction contractor
All official sources agree: the carousel was made "in a family-owned Italian factory." Note the choice of words. Press materials very deliberately refer to it as a "family factory," not simply a "factory." Why is this so important?
This distinction has enormous image significance.
The word "manufaktura" brings to mind heritage, multi-generational craftsmanship, precision craftsmanship and authenticity that is part of the "Italian tradition".
This effectively positions the carousel as a luxury, artisanal import rather than a mass-produced machine. This, in turn, justifies its premium status and the ticket price, which (as it turns out) is a fee for the full aesthetic experience.
Authors and creators of the project
Two key parties are behind the success of this project. On the one hand, we have the investor – the Barbako company – and Anna Barbasiewicz – the visionaries who commissioned this unique facility "specifically for Gdańsk."
On the other hand, there is the artist, Przemysław Garczyński , who gave the Italian construction a unique, Gdańsk visual identity.
Przemysław Garczyński – author of the paintings
Przemysław Garczyński designed the murals that adorn the carousel's crown. His artistic work makes this structure one of a kind.
It was he who took iconic views of Gdańsk and translated them into a specific, retro-aesthetic language, creating works that adorn the very crown of the carousel.
Relationship with the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk
An important fact is the artist's formal connection to the local academic community. Przemysław Garczyński is affiliated with the Faculty of Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk, where he works as a lecturer and assistant.
The investor's decision to commission the paintings from a local academic artist, rather than rely solely on Italian artisans, was a strategically sound decision. It had two significant implications:
Grounding: The Italian construction was "grounded" in the local context, becoming truly "Gdańsk".
Prestige: The association with the Academy of Fine Arts (ASP) has given the decorations the status of "high art." These aren't mere ornaments—these are works of art signed by a prestigious institution. This approach effectively elevates the entire attraction, protecting it from accusations of kitsch and positioning it as an elegant element of the urban landscape.
Unique artistic and decorative elements
It's this richness of detail that almost unanimously earns the carousel media praise for its "beautiful" appeal. It's an intricately crafted object, where (it seems) nothing is left to chance.
Ornaments and paintings depicting Gdańsk's monuments
The top of the carousel is essentially a moving art gallery showcasing Gdańsk's most important symbols. It features "hand-carved ornaments and paintings" designed by Garczyński.
By analyzing the available materials, one can identify among them:
Historic Harbour Crane,
The perspective of Długa Street,
Symbolic "sea shore".
The carousel acts here like an artistic mirror. Its form reflects the architecture it stands among. A tourist wandering around the Fish Market might gaze briefly at the real Crane, only to see its painted interpretation a second later, just above their head. Brilliant.
Sculptures of horses, cups and chariots in motion
The interior of the carousel is filled with "colorful, hand-painted sculptures." We can choose from all the classics of the genre: galloping horses, spinning teacups, stately chariots, and benches.
The key point, however, is that "all the figures are movable." The horses actually "gallop," and the rest of the elements "sway and turn," creating a dynamic ballet that is the very essence of 19th-century style.
Stylish music highlights the retro atmosphere
The entire sensory experience is complemented by a soundtrack. "Stylish music" provides a constant backdrop to the movement. While the sources don't specify the playlist, the use of the adjective "stylish" is certainly not accidental.
In my experience, it has to be carefully selected to enhance the retro aesthetic (I suspect instrumentals, waltzes, maybe classical French songs).
The goal is simple: to isolate passengers from the hustle and bustle of the city and allow them to fully immerse themselves in a nostalgic fantasy. At least for the three-minute ride.
The Gdańsk Lion and the Hewelion Lion as symbols of the city
The carousel cleverly plays off Gdańsk's most important symbol – the lion. It does this in two ways:
Figurative: Among the sculptures, there's one absolutely unique piece: the "lion—of course, the symbol of Gdańsk," also known as the "Gdańsk Lion." It's a physical, hand-painted figure that you can ride on, a direct tribute to the city's coat of arms.
Location: The carousel's summer location at the Fish Market is located on the popular " Hewelion the Lion Trail , " an urban outdoor game for children. This creates a brilliant marketing synergy. The carousel becomes an unofficial but exciting "bonus" on the sightseeing route for families. Children first "find" the Hewelion the Lion figure near the Fish Market, and then can literally ride the "Gdańsk Lion" on the carousel. This is a perfect example of how a private attraction can work in conjunction with a public tourism initiative.
Practical information for visitors
Time for specifics: everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Gdańsk Carousel.
Ticket prices and ride duration
How much does a ride on the Gdańsk Carousel cost? It costs 10 złoty per person . Children under 3 are free, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Each ride is short but intense – it lasts exactly 3 minutes .
Opening hours in summer and winter
Opening hours vary depending on the season. During peak summer seasons (e.g., during St. Dominic's Fair ), the carousel operates longer to accommodate crowds of tourists:
Sunday - Thursday: 10:00 - 22:00
Friday - Saturday: 10:00 - 23:00
During the winter season, you will find the carousel at Targ Węglowy , and its opening hours are closely linked to the schedule of the Christmas Market .
Facilities for disabled people
This is a very important and commendable element of the project: accessibility . The creators ensured that the attraction was inclusive.
How was this resolved? "The chariots are accessible to people with disabilities." So it's not just an access ramp; a person with a mobility impairment can actually and respectfully participate in the ride.
The choice of the "chariot", the most stable part of the carousel, allows entire families to enjoy this attraction, regardless of their level of mobility.
Relaxation zone around the carousel
The accompanying infrastructure has also been considered. A "relaxation zone" is being organized around the carousel (at least in the summer location at the Fish Market).
This is a special place for parents waiting for their children or for those who just want to sit down for a moment and soak up the atmosphere – enjoy the sight of the rotating machine and the sound of “stylish music”, even without buying a ticket.
Location and seasonality of operation
The Gdańsk Carousel leads a kind of double life, inextricably linked to the city's calendar. It is not a permanent architectural feature, but rather a mobile "pearl" whose return is eagerly awaited by many.
The Fish Market as the main place where the carousel operates
The carousel's main summer home is the Fish Market . This is an absolutely premium location. The gondola offers unparalleled views of the Motława River, Ołowianka Island, the Crane, and the Main Town.
It's there, surrounded by the water and historic port architecture, that her retro Venetian style is at its most impressive. She can usually be found there from July until the end of the summer holidays.
Winter edition at Targ Węglowy during the Christmas market
As December approaches, the carousel undergoes a transformation and moves to Targ Węglowy (Coal Market). There, it becomes the "famous Gdańsk carousel" – the central, luminous heart of the Christmas market, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
You could say that the carousel is like a seasonal chameleon.
In summer, it's a bright, Venice-inspired waterfront attraction. In winter, it becomes the beating heart of a "fairytale town," gleaming in the darkness, enveloped in the scent of mulled wine and Christmas trees.
In both cases, it remains a key economic asset for the two main city fairs, attracting visitors and creating that unique, magical atmosphere that ultimately translates into the commercial success of both events.
The carousel as a seasonal attraction in Gdańsk
The annual life cycle of the Gdańsk Carousel is perfectly synchronized with the two most important moments in the city's calendar: St. Dominic's Fair and the Christmas Market. It's a bit like a recurring, beautiful dream.
It appears twice a year to remind us all—residents and tourists alike—of this magical, romantic, and somewhat carefree side of Gdańsk. And then? Then it disappears, leaving room for longing and joyful anticipation for the next revolution.
Gdańsk Carousel – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are you feeling dizzy with questions about this Gdańsk attraction ? Don't worry, it's probably just from looking at it! I've gathered the answers to everything you need to know here, in a nutshell. Planning your visit to the Gdańsk Carousel will be a breeze.
Where exactly is the Gdańsk Carousel located? It depends on the season! In the summer, the Gdańsk Carousel has its permanent location at the Fish Market (right next to the famous Crane and with a beautiful view of Ołowianka Island), while in the winter it moves to the Coal Market to be the heart of the Christmas Market.
When did the Gdańsk Carousel launch, and where did it come from? The Gdańsk Carousel was created in an Italian factory as a special order for the city of Gdańsk . The official launch of the two-story carousel took place on July 28, 2018, perfectly timed to the start of the St. Dominic's Fair (or as others prefer: St. Dominic's Fair ).
How much does a ride on the Gdańsk Carousel cost? A standard ticket for the Gdańsk Carousel costs 10 PLN per person.
How long does one ride last? The pleasure itself is short but intense – it lasts exactly 3 minutes.
What are the carousel's opening hours? Opening hours are seasonal. During the summer, the double-decker Gdańsk Carousel typically operates from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the week, and even until 11:00 p.m. on weekends.
Is this attraction just for kids? Absolutely not! It's a tourist attraction for anyone who appreciates retro style. Adults have just as much fun here as kids.
Is the carousel accessible to people with disabilities? Yes, the creators have thought about that. The special chariots are fully adapted for wheelchair users.
What figures can you sit on? Choose from classic galloping horses, chariots, spinning teacups, benches, and even the special Gdańsk lion, the city's symbol.
What do the paintings on the carousel depict? The top is decorated with hand-painted views of Gdańsk's most important attractions , including St. Mary's Basilica , Neptune's Fountain , and the Crane .
What is this Gdańsk carousel modeled after? The main aesthetic inspiration was the classic Venetian Carousel , which perfectly suits the maritime atmosphere of Gdańsk and the proximity of the Motława River.
Does the Gdańsk Tourist Board recommend this place? Absolutely. The Gdańsk Tourist Board often cites the carousel as one of the most photogenic and charming spots on the city map.
What else is worth seeing in Gdańsk near the carousel? Standing on Rybny Targ , you're just a stone's throw from the Motława River, the Museum of the Second World War , and Długi Targ . It's the perfect starting point for exploring Gdańsk , and the marina, where the Gdańsk boat departs, is also close by.
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