St. Catherine's Church, Gdansk

Saint Catherine's Church in Gdańsk is the oldest church in the city, with its origins tracing back to the 1220s. The church's architecture is primarily Gothic in style, featuring chapels, a high gable roof, a square floor plan, and vaults, all of which contribute to its historical and architectural significance. Over the centuries, the church underwent numerous renovations and additions to achieve its current form.

For centuries, Saint Catherine's Church played a pivotal role in the religious life of Gdańsk. From 1545 until the end of World War II in 1945, it served as a Protestant church. Post-World War II, it was reinstated as a Catholic church, marking a significant shift in its religious affiliation.

The church is not only a place of worship but also a site of historical importance. It is the final resting place of the renowned 17th-century astronomer Johannes Hevelius, who also served as the church's administrator. His dedication to the church is commemorated with his tomb located at the rear behind the altar, complete with an epitaph funded by his grandson almost a century after Hevelius' death.

Apart from its religious and historical significance, Saint Catherine's Church is also notable for its contributions to culture and science. Since 2011, it houses the world's first pulsar clock, a remarkable feat in the field of astronomy. Additionally, the church is home to the Museum of Turret Clocks, a part of the Museum of Gdańsk, showcasing the historical evolution of timekeeping. The church's attic was once utilized as an art gallery from 2000 to 2006, further emphasizing its cultural value.

The church's standout feature is its 76-meter Baroque tower with a 49-bell carillon that has chimed every hour since 1939 to commemorate WWII.